5 Reasons to Adopt a Dog
People to the Rescue! That’s us, as in you and me, in case you didn’t know. I’m going to give you 5 reasons to adopt a dog, so you can be a super hero!
Raise your hand if your dog is a rescue dog! I have both hands up. Which makes typing a little difficult. Both our babies are rescue pups. And why should you adopt a dog? (Or cat, or turtle, or ferret, or any other critter?)
- You can be a life saver! A hero! Isn’t that your life’s ambition, to be a hero? Dogs and cats are euthanized all over the country every day. Step up and take in a critter, give it a loving home, a new lease on life.
- Rescue dogs and cats nearly always come spayed and neutered. No panic about the dog next door getting under the fence and – voila! Puppies!
- Rescue critters are up to date on shots and worming almost all the time. A healthy dog is a step in the right direction.
- Possibly a healthier selection – many rescue and shelter animals are mutts, a mix of breeds. Frequently, mutts are healthier dogs, not having the same health issues that purebred critters have, things like hip dysplasia, breathing issues, etc.
- A larger selection – versus a pet store or a breeder, rescue animals come in all colors, shapes, sizes and temperament. You may go looking for what you think is the perfect dog and come away with a different dog entirely, just because your eyes locked and you know it’s right.
But Which Dog is Right For You?
Before blessing your home with a dog, take this little quiz. You don’t have to be too breed specific with a rescue dog, since the dogs are often mixes, but the answers to your quiz are a good place to start. Every time I take this quiz, my dog is an Australian Shepherd. Go figure.
So how do you find this perfect rescue dog? I’m so glad you asked! Here’s what I’m finding so far:
- AdoptAPet has listings for some state rescue groups. Especially in the wake of recent hurricanes. It’s generally a very informative site if you start clicking around. Seriously – if you’re going to bring an animal into your home that will be part of your family for years, be informed. Know what you’re getting into.
- So far, I’m in love with the Senior Dogs Project as an adoption site. It seems to be thorough, so you know exactly what you’re looking at in an adoption agency before you click. Go there. Click around.
- And if your heart is set on a specific breed – let’s face it, some of us want the security of knowing exactly what we’re getting, and that’s okay – the AKC has registered rescue. It’s a good thing.
If none of this works for you, Google up rescue dogs in your state. I occasionally Google Aussies in Oklahoma, or Great Pyrenees here. It’s my dream to one day have land, lots of chickens, and a couple of beautiful Great Pyrenees. *sigh* A girl can dream …
Whatever your excuse, there’s a response to it. If you’re still resistant, drop in a comment and I’ll see if I can’t help over come it. Because, you know, resistance is futile. 😉
Giveaway
Once you have the adopt a dog of your dreams, what do you feed it? What toys will it love? What treats should you give your rescue dog?! Well, I can help you with that last one! I’ve given a bazillion Jones Natural Chews treats to rescue dogs all over the country! Seriously. And right now Jones Natural Chews is hosting a giveaway for their newest treat, which any rescue dog is sure to love – Bully Basted Snorks! To enter to win, simply click this sentence, leave a comment on the new post which will pop up, click the entry box and click I Commented! You’ve entered. Your dog will smile. And you might, too!
Spreading the good chews …
Flea
