Bringing a new furry family member into your home is a big decision. If you’re a first-time pet guardian, you may be thinking about buying your cat or dog from a breeder. Here are 10 great reasons to adopt from a shelter instead:
- You’ll help address the overpopulation crisis. Thanks to a nationwide shortage of veterinary professionals and diminished access to care, shelters are bursting at the seams with puppies, kittens, cats, and dogs — especially large dogs. Adopting is one of the most impactful things an animal lover can do to help.
- You’re saving more than one life. By bringing a shelter animal into your home, you open up space for another cat or dog to find theirs.
- Shelter staff want what’s best for you and your animal. Since they aren’t interested in making a sale, SF SPCA adoption counselors listen to your needs and do their best to match you with your ideal companion.
- You’ll have access to shelter resources. After adoption, SF SPCA staff are available to answer questions and address concerns. Should your circumstances change, we’ll always welcome our animals back to find them a new forever home.
- Make new friends. Your shelter is a wealth of community resources and a magnet for animal lovers; explore everything it has to offer, including volunteering. Meet new people at the park with your dog. Go wild talking about your cat with people who understand.
- You won’t support puppy mills and irresponsible breeders. While there are responsible breeders out there, adopting guarantees you’re not supporting the suffering that can occur in profit-driven operations.
- Rescue pets provide unconditional love. You often don’t know where shelter animals come from, and when you provide a loving sanctuary, they never seem to forget that.
- Pets are good for your health. Interacting with animals has been shown to decrease levels of cortisol (a stress-related hormone) and lower blood pressure.
- Shake up your routine. Life will never be boring again!
- You’ll have a life-long BFF. Your pet is a confidant, buddy, family member, and will always be there for you.
Ready to find your new BFF? View adoptable animals here.