Adopt Shelter Animals: Give Them a Future
Adoption is not only a compassionate choice—it’s a meaningful one that transforms lives.
Every day, tens of thousands of dogs and cats—including puppies and kittens—are killed in shelters across the United States. Some city shelters may euthanize up to 300 cats and kittens in a single day. Although lethal injection is the standard method, it remains traumatic for animals. In many areas, outdated and inhumane methods like gas chambers, heart sticks, and heat boxes are still used. Euthanasia is rarely performed by a veterinarian. Newborn puppies and kittens are especially vulnerable, as shelters often lack resources and volunteer fosters to care for them.
Why Adopt?
Choosing to adopt saves lives. In both rural and urban areas, shelters and animal control facilities are often overwhelmed. If you’ve been turned away by a private rescue, local and municipal shelters still need adopters. Many animals are overlooked simply due to location, age, breed misconceptions, or lack of advertisement.
The Value of Adult Adoptions
Adult animals are often more settled, easier to train, and eager to bond. A five-year-old cat is still in her prime. A mature dog can be playful, affectionate, and loyal. Puppies and kittens grow quickly, and many are surrendered between 1.5 and 4 years old once the charm of puppyhood or kittenhood fades. Mixed-breed animals and maligned breeds are often overlooked due to trends or misconceptions. However, purebred animals are bred for physical features, not for behavioral traits. A young age or specific breed doesn’t guarantee a perfect temperament or personality type.
The Truth About Shelter Animals
Contrary to common myths, animals in shelters are not there because they are “bad” or “flawed.” Many are surrendered due to housing instability, illness, death, or financial hardship. Some come from neglectful or impulsive purchases. Their personalities are as diverse and loving as any breeder-sourced animal—and often, they’re already house-trained and socialized.
Adopt, Don’t Shop
Buying from a pet shop or online breeder often supports inhumane commercial breeding operations (puppy mills and catteries). Purebred animals are bred primarily for appearance, not behavior or health. Chihuahuas, Pit Bulls, German Shepherds, yellow and black Labradors, and cat breeds such as Siamese, Persians, and Bengals frequently fill up shelter cages and kennels due to their popularity.
Visit PetFinder.com to see some animals available for adoption.