Benefits of Adopting a Shelter Animal
Essay by Mr.e • January 20, 2012 • Essay • 417 Words (2 Pages) • 1,642 Views
I. Basic Facts
A. Between 3-6 million animals are euthanized in shelters each year across the country
B. Only 20% of people adopt from a shelter
C. Animals in shelters are screened for health conditions and neutered/spayed prior to adoption to decrease animal overpopulation.
II. Benefits
A. Older animals have already been trained/socialized around homes and families.
B. Shelters screen potential owners to ensure the right match and decrease the likelihood animal will be returned.
C. Save the life of a dog/cat that has been abandoned by previous owners.
D. Wider selection available to choose from.
E. Will not be supporting puppy mills which breed animals for profit.
F. Pre-health screening at many shelters reduces the initial costs of adoption for the family.
III. Dispel Myths
A. Shelter animals are not necessarily abandoned due to behavior problems: many families give up animals due to new baby, financial crisis or health reasons.
B. Purebred animals were once a rarity in shelters but due to increased animal populations, many purebreds are available for adoption.
C. Purebreds are not necessarily any better behaved and/or require less care. In fact, they are generally more expensive and require special care and training.
D. Older animals are not un-trainable and can live for many years. They are often better companions for elderly couples or families with small children.
E. Older pets have an established temperament that can be determined prior to adoption. They are not necessarily going to be overly hostile or disinterested in their new family.
IV. Factors to Consider Before Adopting
A. Animals live anywhere from 15-25 years. It is a commitment to care for the animal their entire life.
B. Do you have time to play with and interact with your new pet?
C. Animal costs include food, grooming, health care and possible boarding during vacations. Consider your present and future financial situation carefully.
D. Are you expecting any major life changes such as a move or new baby that will take time away from your ability to properly care for an animal?
E. What will you do in the event your animal does experience
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