“Adopt, don’t shop” is a national slogan to raise awareness and encourage people to adopt dogs, cats, and any homeless animals from shelters or rescues rather than purchasing them from breeders, puppy mills, or pet shops.
By adopting an animal from the shelter, you are saving the life of that animal but also, you are freeing up space to save another animal's life
Some were given up by their owners for various of reasons, some were rescued from different situations such as hoarding or natural diaster, and some were not able to be reunited with their family when they got lost. By adopting an animal, you are giving them a second chance despite of their background. You made them a part of your family to give them all the love they deserve and that is all they want.
Animals in shelters have adopting fees ranging from typically $50 to $300, sometimes free!
Animal shelters often have animals of all ages and genders, as well as purebred and mixed breeds. Also, a lot of shelters get to know their animals so that they can provide the best fit pet into future owner's life. Ask an employee about What qualities you are looking for, such as cat-friendly, good around kids, etc, to find the perfect pet!
Puppy mills are large-scale breeding operations and approximately 90% of puppies you buy in pet stores or online are from puppy mills. The dogs in puppy mills are often not given adequate veterinary care and are kept in less-than-ideal condtions, such as cages or not sanitary areas. Also, mother dogs are forced to endure multiple pregnancies in a row and often times if they are deemed "useless" they will be discarded.
Breeders are also not ideal, even the reputable ones. They are essentially like puppy mills just with a better title. If you are absolutely adamant about buying a specific breed (dog or cat), please do research and find a licensed breeder who are committed to humane practices and takes care of their animals or reach out to a breed-specific rescue near you.
When there are more people adopting, puppy mills and breeders will have a harder time staying in business
Coded by Caroline Ko