Pet Adoption Versus Pet Purchase

Deciding to become a pet owner is one of the most pivotal moments in life. While the choice to take home a pet can definitely be impromptu, it may be better for some folks to spend a considerable amount of time weighing all the options. First things first: where do you find your new pet? Adopting a pet can benefit you, an animal, and your whole community.

You Want a Pet; Now What?

A realistic approach to a pet’s lifelong health, wellness, and safety is necessary for a successful adoption. Unfortunately, the enormous commitment of pet ownership isn’t always fully understood until well after a pet arrives at their new home. 

Shelters take in millions of pets every year that are homeless for reasons that have nothing to do with them. Always deserving of a warm, safe, happy home, shelter pets make loving, sweet companions to the right people.

Pet Health Matters

Puppy mills and backyard breeders commonly sell puppies to people overwhelmed by canine cuteness. The price is much lower than going through a reputable breeder, but many of these animals have not experienced healthy living environments prior to being sold. This means that people unwittingly buy animals that need significant medical intervention. Sadly, these animals find themselves at animal shelters in high numbers. What’s more, giving money to a puppy mill operation ensures the terrible cycle of animal abuse continues on.

Pet Adoption Facts

Animal shelters are often the best places to find the right match for you and your family. Sometimes a full history of a pet is known from the previous owner. Other times, shelter staff and volunteers work diligently to understand a pet’s personality and behavior to facilitate a successful pet adoption. 

When a pet is adopted through a shelter, there is always another one waiting for their chance. By freeing up a bed and cage, you are helping more than one sweet, deserving animal.

Specific Breed? No Problem

We know that people looking for a specific age and breed consider going through a breeder or look on social media. Animal shelters usually help people find the right type of pet by adding filters on the websites, and you can also try to request being contacted if the specific pet you’re looking for ever enters the shelter. 

Puppies and Kittens

While not as common as older pets, animal shelters do take in baby animals all the time. If you’re looking to adopt a puppy or kitten, you will eventually get lucky. Because they don’t last long at shelters, it’s a good idea to have all the right supplies and gear at home so you are ready when they become adoptable.

Without a doubt, reputable breeders can work with you on the exact type of pet you want. We always recommend asking for a tour of the premises, meeting the parents of the litter you’ll be choosing from, and asking for the references. 

Senior Pet Adoption

If you don’t have the time or energy to devote to a young pet, consider adopting an older cat or dog. They really just want a warm place to nap and a friendly face to play with. They are consistent, easy going, and absolutely reliable. You can always foster these animals, too, to see if they would acclimate well to your home and lifestyle.  

Your New Best Friend

If you have questions about pet adoption or responsible pet ownership, our staff would be happy to assist you at Long Animal Hospital and Emergency Center. Please call us at (704) 523-2996.