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Entity makes the case for adopting a pet from a shelter.

As PETA says, you can’t buy love, but you can certainly adopt it from an animal shelter.

Animals come in diverse sizes, but regardless of form, they still provide an abundance of joy. Imagine having a furry companion to welcome you home at the end of a long day or to comfort you when they sense you are upset. You’d be surprised at the amount of TLC that can be stuffed into one small, loyal package.

Have you been thinking about adding a furry baby to your family, but aren’t sure if you should? Here are some reasons adopting will probably be one of the best decisions you make in life.

<em> Created by Gabrielle Waxtein for Entity.</em>

Created by Gabrielle Waxtein for Entity.

1 YOU WILL LITERALLY SAVE A LIFE.

According to Helping Hands Humane Society, shelter animals are in need of a second chance. Many animals were lost, given up or abandoned. Adopting a pet gives animals “a new life in a loving home.” Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) writes that many shelter animals weren’t given up because of their behavior; they were given up because of the “issues of their guardians.” There may have been a change in household circumstances such as a divorce, an allergic baby, a move or financial issues. By adopting these pets, you give them another opportunity to be loved and taken care of – and in most cases, avoiding euthanasia.

2 ADOPTION HELPS FIGHT OVERPOPULATION.

SPCA also writes, “There are too many animals and not enough homes.” Many shelters are overcrowded with limited resources. As a result, many of the animals who don’t get adopted because they are shy, sick or over six years old are euthanized. According to Helping Hands Humane Society, each year eight to 12 million dogs, cats, puppies and kittens are euthanized because there is not enough space for them in shelters.

3 PETS ARE GOOD FOR YOUR MENTAL HEALTH.

According to Huffington Post, numerous scientific studies suggest that “pet ownership provides benefits that include the lowering of blood pressure, reduction of stress and overall improvement of mental health.” The simple act of petting or grooming can release oxytocin, a hormone related to stress and anxiety relief. Pets also decrease loneliness. Huffington Post writes, “Often a pet is very intuitive and will seek you out when you’re feeling down, refusing to allow you to remain alone.”

4 PETS ARE ALSO GOOD FOR YOUR PHYSICAL HEALTH.

Many pets can encourage you to get outside and get moving. According to Animal Planet, dog owners can get in shape by walking, jogging, biking, hiking or even doing yoga with their pets. Animal Planet reports that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) have conducted heart-related studies on pet owners and found that because pets are stress-relievers, they also decrease blood pressure, cholesterol and triglyceride levels. All of these factors can help improve heart health. According to the website, research also indicates that owning a pet can also improve recovery rates for people who have already experienced a heart attack.

5 RESCUING A PET ALSO SAVES YOU MONEY.

If you have already thought about getting a pet but aren’t sure if you should go to a pet store, a breeder, or a shelter, choose the shelter. Adopting a pet saves lives and money. According to SPCA, “Pets adopted from shelters and rescue groups usually cost less than pets purchased or even obtained for free.” This is because shelter pets often already have microchips, are vaccinated, are spayed or neutered and have complete immunization records.

Pet adoption truly changes lives. It gives the pet a second chance and it improves the quality of your own life. There is a pet out there for you that matches your needs and personality; all it takes is a trip down to your local shelter.

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