Why I Support Adopting Instead of Shopping

Editor’s Note: Please welcome to our writer roster, Taylor Compton! Taylor is student at the University of Georgia where she is studying to major in journalism. Currently she lives in Athens, Georgia with her two dogs Tyson and Taco.

As a child, you don’t realize where your pets come from, you just know you love them. For as long as I can remember my family has had dogs. They have always been a part of the family, and it wasn’t until I was older that I realized just how you go about finding your furry best friend. The common idea is to pick out a puppy at the store, but there is so much more to the process than that. There are so many animals who are rescued and need a home. So, why shop when you could adopt?

My freshman year of high school, my family and I decided to start looking for another dog. It wasn’t until I began this search that I understood the importance of adoption over shopping at pet stores. There are so many buying options for people looking for pets, but there are also so many animals looking for a home in shelters. Online sources and local shelters can provide information on dogs and cats looking for a home, and help you find a pet who needs you more than you need them!

On average every year, 7.6 animals are in shelters across the nation. That means there are 7.6 pets looking for a home and a family to love. So many of these abused and lonely animals could be taken in if more people would turn away from breed bias and accept adoption as a better choice.

Currently I have two adopted dogs; Tyson, who we found at our local county shelter, and Taco, who we rescued ourselves. They are both my favorite snuggle partners, the best playmates, and my two favorite faces to see when I walk in the door. They both have very beautiful, very different personalities, and as far as I’m concerned they are family. Tyson a boxer/basenji mix is my loving, happy, and cuddly boy. He loves treats and when you rub his ears. I adore him. Taco is my wild, free, and most precious little mutt. She loves to chew up socks and lay on her brother. I am obsessed with her! They aren’t pure bred, but in my eyes they are perfect. Without animal adoption I wouldn’t have my two best friends and that’s why I am passionate about promoting adoption over pet purchasing.

I can’t imagine my life without my dogs. They bring so much joy into my everyday routine. The thought of either one of them being in a cage at a shelter or pound is heartbreaking. So, I strongly support animal adoption. Whenever friends or family mention they want to bring a new pet into their home, I am the first to recommend shelters or show them animals that are currently up for adoption. There are so many great options for pet adoption and so many loving animals waiting to be taken in.

Most people who have pets would agree their animals are almost human. They love you and you love them. It’s an age old, family relationship. You would never buy or sell a family member, so why would you buy a dog or a cat? There is a perfect little puppy waiting on you at a shelter. So, like me, adopt don’t shop and find a pet you’ll love!