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Advantages of adopting shelter dogs

Diane Pomerance has a Ph.D. in Communications from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, and is widely regarded as a pet expert. She has written seven books about animals including the Animal Companions Series and her new book Our Rescu...

Debunking myths about shelter dogs


Debunking myths about shelter dogs

How do dogs end up in shelters?

Each year millions of innocent dogs and cats are tortured, neglected, abandoned, and abused. These "castoffs" or strays struggle to survive under stressful and, often, horrific circumstances – alone at the mercy of the elements, without food or water, without the care or aid of human beings, without love and compassion, and without hope of companionship, friendship, help, or support from people. Ultimately, these animals end up in municipal animal shelters or welfare organizations, and if they are too weak or ill, or in any way display aggressive behavior (keep in mind that they are terrified and traumatized in their new environment), they will be euthanized.

Some of the animals in animal shelters or rescue organizations have been born and raised in puppy mills and never experienced life outside a crate. Others are the inadvertent victims of greedy and irreputable backyard breeders. Others have been someone's family members and have been surrendered to an animal welfare organization or shelter because of various reasons (i.e., divorce, separation, relocation, financial loss and so on) that we may never comprehend.

Pet stores, breeders, and puppy mills

There are many reasons to adopt a rescue dog rather than purchasing one from a breeder or pet store. Many people assume that if they buy a dog from either of these sources, it will be healthier and sounder. This is a misconception, as many dogs sold to pet stores come from puppy mills where, until they are sold, are kept in deplorable conditions, confined in crates that are small and cramped and piled upon each other, fed inadequate diets, given dirty or contaminated water, and provided with little, if any veterinary care. Having adopted many rescued puppy mill dogs myself, I have experienced the many serious health and behavioral issues these poor dogs encounter.

Shelter dogs deserve a second chance

Many people assume that if they adopt a dog from a shelter, there must be something wrong with it. This is not true at all. Many of the dogs that end up in shelters are there simply because their human owners have been ignorant, cruel, lazy, irresponsible, and neglectful. These owners regard their dogs as chattel rather than as sentient, loyal, and loving friends and family members. Neglectful or abusive owners do not provide their dogs with attention, interaction, socialization, or obedience training, and have not treated their pets with the respect, appreciation, and love they deserve. In many cases, the dogs surrendered to shelters have been the loving and loyal members of a family and now find themselves not only in an unfamiliar environment but also restrained in a "cell" or kennel with many other frightened, barking, growling, anxious, yipping, and howling dogs. Imagine the stress and terror they must feel!

Advantages of adopting a shelter dog

1. You'll save a life

One of the most significant benefits of adopting a shelter dog is that you are saving the life of a sentient creature that is in desperate need of a loving home. Innocent and vulnerable, she depends upon human beings for her care and well-being and will learn to trust and love her "guardians."

2. Sense of fulfillment

It is very fulfilling to save a life and watch it blossom and flourish with love, care, appreciation, and respect.

3. Improved quality of life

Rescue dogs have the ability to lift your spirits as well as improve the quality -- and increase the longevity -- of your life. The health benefits associated with adopting a companion animal like a dog are many and even scientifically substantiated. Your furry friend will benefit both your physical and emotional health.

4. Unconditional love



More on adopting a family dog

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5 Reasons to get an aging pooch
10 Things to know before getting a dog

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