Paws for Thought:The Impact of Adoption(Adrianna Butterline) Adopting pets from shelters or rescues gives animals a second chance at life. Many of these pets have been abandoned or surrendered, and by choosing to adopt, you are not only saving a life, but you are also making room for another animal that might desperately need shelter. Plus, adoption fees often include vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and microchipping, which are additional costs when buying a pet. The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), is an organization in support of adoption. They believe that a pet purchased from a pet store is a complete unknown when it comes to behavior, medical records, and personality. Once you walk out of the store, you are on your own. Most pet stores do not provide any support if you have questions or problems with your new pet. It is better to adopt, especially from a rescue group or shelter, because you will know what you are getting. The group has a history of the animal and will help you through the familiarization period because they are invested in providing a good home for that animal (Battista 1).

Additionally, when you adopt, you help to reduce the demand for commercially bred puppies and kittens, often produced under inhumane conditions in puppy mills and catteries. In mills and catteries, the living conditions are horrific. Puppies and kittens live in cramped cages, contract many illnesses, are provided with contaminated food and water, and lack veterinary care (11 facts about puppy mills, 1). By adopting, you are taking a stand against these cruel practices and supporting animal welfare. Plus, shelters have a wide variety of animals, allowing you to find the perfect companion that matches your lifestyle and personality.

Adopting an animal is such a heartwarming experience! It's like gaining a new family member who brings a unique blend of love, joy, and sometimes a bit of chaos into your life. I personally have five animals at home, two dogs and three cats. All my animals were adopted from shelters and rescues. I have a unique bond with all of them that only grows stronger with each day. We create special moments that turn into cherished memories. Even though you may feel like you saved their life, it is a two-way street; as much as you help them, they do wonders for my own well-being too! Sometimes when humans become too much - they make me laugh, keep me company, and are a shoulder to cry on.

References:
11 facts about puppy mills. DoSomething.org. (n.d.). https://www.dosomething.org/us/facts/11-facts-about-puppy-mills#:~:text=Every%20year%20in%20Ameica%2C%20it’s,community%20to%20adopt%20shelter%20pets
Battista, F. (n.d.). Why adopt rather than buy? SPCA of Martinsville and Henry County. https://www.spcamhc.org/resources/other-faqs/why-adopt-rather-than-buy-

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