Three things to know about buying a rescue pet

Are you looking to expand your family with a dog or cat? Consider adopting from an animal shelter rather than buying from a pet store or another source. Here are three things to know about buying a rescue animal:

1. You help save the lives of two animals

Space within shelters is often limited, putting animals at risk for euthenasia. According to The Humane Society of the United States, by adopting from a humane society, animal shelter, rescue group, or local animal-control agency, you help save the lives of two animals – the pet you adopt, and a homeless animal somewhere who can be rescued because of the space you helped free up. It’s estimated that annually more than one million adoptable dogs and cats are euthanized in the United States, simply because too many pets come into shelters and too few people consider adoption when looking for a pet, according to the Humane Society.

2. You can save money

When adopting from a rescue or animal shelter, your pet is likely already vaccinated, spayed or neutered, and sometimes even micro-chipped. This can save you hundreds of dollars in up front costs for your four-legged friend. And because pets often end up in shelters due to a move or change in family situation, some are already house-trained and used to living with families.

3. You can help stop puppy mills

According to The Humane Society, puppy mills are mass breeding facilities that put profit above the welfare of animals. Animals from puppy mills are often housed in poor conditions with improper medical care, and can be very sick and behaviorally troubled as a result. They are often sold through pet stores.

All Creatures Great & Small : 1225 Warren Avenue : Downers Grove, IL 60515 : 630.852.0910 : https://www.downersgrovevet.com/