Why Adopt A Dog And Not Buy One?

Updated on November 30, 2023

Why settle for a boring, store-bought pet when you can be a hero and adopt a dog? Not only will you gain a loyal companion for life, but you'll also be doing your part for sustainability.

By adopting, you're giving a deserving pup a second chance and reducing the demand for commercially bred animals. So, what are you waiting for?

Let's dive into the many reasons why you should choose to adopt a dog and make a positive impact on the world!

The Best 6 Reasons To Adopt A Dog

Next time, don't hesitate and adopt a dog. Why? Simply because YOU:

1. Do not support animal exploitation.
2. Contribute to reducing unnecessary canine or cat reproduction.
3. Give a home to a furry friend in need.
4. Show empathy towards your bystanders.
5. Help reduce the number of animals that enter the shelters and, therefore, save the lives of one, two, or more animals.
6. Got a faithful friend for life. 

Adopting breaks the vicious cycle created by dog breeders. It avoids the overpopulation of animals, protects the rights of the animals by avoiding the dire conditions of procreation and reduces the entry of animals in the shelters. Do you need more reasons to adopt?

Adopting is the most sustainable option in the short, medium and long term. Without doubt, it is the way to go if we want to change the world.

The Situation Of Cats And Dogs Today

Let's take the data for the United States. Although there are no official statistics, some organizations such as ASPCA have produced their own information.

An estimated 6.5 million companion animals enter shelters in the United States each year. Approximately 3.3 million are dogs and 3.2 million are cats. An atrocity! And the ones that stay on the streets are subjected to the cold and the hunger and all kinds of humiliations. In addition, they procreate and increase that way the general problem.

However, we must accept that these numbers of abandon animals are decreasing thanks to the awareness of dog owners. You're one of them. Each one of us contributes our bit to promote that each year, fewer animals are looking for a home.

Adopt A Dog, A Sustainable Option

Do you know that dogs and cats that enter the system are put up for adoption, and if a family is not willing to take care of them, they are euthanized?

Each year, around 3.2 million shelter animals are adopted, but 1.5 million are euthanized. These numbers, although they have decreased, continue to be very high and make our hearts ache.

What if instead of buying a dog or a cat in a pet store, we gave a home to those who are waiting for it? By adopting, you would be saving two lives: the one of the adopted animal and the one of the animal that is exploited to procreate.

Yes, because it is also necessary to assess that breed animals are used to procreate continuously and discarded when their body can no longer bear the "work". Then, they also end in the shelters.

The same happens to the puppies that do not meet the standards of the breed. Unfortunately, many people use dogs, cats, or other pets as an accessory, a
way to show their status, or that they are cool. This causes the hatchery industry to specialize in a certain breed in the quest to make money, in some cases
regardless of the breeding conditions.

Join Give A Shit: We Donate 10% Of Our profits To Soi Dog Foundation

Fight alongside us for better living conditions for our furry friends. Be encouraged to raise your voice to defend animals rights.

Let's join forces to achieve a greener, more respectful world, with less plastic and with more empathy. Are you willing to join this battle?

At Give a Sh!t we donate 10% of our profits to the Soi Dog Foundation, an organization whose mission is to improve the welfare of dogs and cats in Asia, resulting in better lives for both the animal and human communities. Help us to help!

FAQ

Why Do People Buy A Dog?

There are many reasons why people buy dogs, but let's be honest, nothing beats the feeling of adopting a furry friend and giving them a second chance at a happy life.

Sure, buying a dog may seem like the easy way out, but why settle for average when you can be a hero and adopt? Plus, by choosing to adopt a dog, you're not just gaining a loyal companion, you're also making a positive impact on animal welfare and sustainability. So, next time you're considering buying a dog, think again and choose to adopt instead!

Why Do People Pay So Much For A Dog?

Some may argue that it's for the status symbol of having a purebred pup, or because they're looking for a specific breed with certain characteristics. But let's face it, when you can adopt a furry friend in need for a fraction of the cost and still gain a lifetime of unconditional love, why not choose adoption over excessive spending? 

Are Adopted Dogs Healthy And Well-Behaved?

Most shelters provide health check-ups, vaccinations, and spaying/neutering services. Additionally, shelter staff often assess the behavior of dogs, providing valuable insights into their temperament and compatibility with potential owners.

Is Adopting A Dog More Affordable Than Buying One?

Generally, yes. Adoption fees often include initial veterinary costs, which can be less expensive than buying a dog, especially from a breeder or pet store where additional costs for vaccinations, microchipping, and spay/neuter procedures may apply.

Can I Find A Specific Breed When Adopting?

Shelters and rescue organizations have a wide variety of breeds, including purebreds. There are also breed-specific rescues for those looking for a particular type of dog.

What If I Have Specific Requirements For A Pet?

Shelter staff can help match you with a dog that fits your lifestyle and needs. Whether you need a pet-friendly dog, a dog good with children, or one that suits apartment living, shelters often have suitable candidates.

How Does Adopting A Dog Benefit The Community?

Adopting a dog from a shelter helps reduce the number of homeless animals in the community and supports local animal welfare organizations.