Adopting a pet from a shelter or rescue organization is a great way to save an animal's life. Most animals that we would think of as pets are pretty social and would prefer to be with a family. Some US states even have laws that prioritize shelter animals. California, for example, mandates that pet stores have to source their animals from shelters and rescues. And you don’t have to adopt to help the animals in your area! Find a shelter or rescue organization and donate to them! Many also accept pet food and other useful items. You can even volunteer with walking the animals if you want to socialize without the commitment of taking a pet home. 

Adopted pets are just as loving and capable of forming strong bonds with their new owners as animals purchased from breeders or pet stores. Many shelter pets are already trained and have known personalities, making it easier to find the perfect pet for you. There is an old-fashioned myth that many of the animals in shelters, particularly dogs and cats, are mutts or mixed-breed. In fact, the recent popularity of purebred animals has unfortunately led to a situation where extremely rare breeds can be found in shelters. In US shelters, up to 25% of dogs may be purebred. 

Many shelters and rescues conduct thorough evaluations and provide medical care for animals before putting them up for adoption, ensuring that you are getting a healthy pet. Adopting a pet from a shelter also ensures that your pet has been vaccinated and spayed or neutered. In fact, some places mandate it, so if you are worried about adopting, you can always call your closest shelter and ask! 

Adopting an older animal has its own set of benefits, including the fact that they're often already trained and have a known personality. Older pets also tend to be calmer, making them great options for families with young children or older adults. Sometimes you can even find abandoned work animals with thoroughly impressive skill sets! As cute as they are, puppies are a lot of work! Potty training, dog school and tiny bladders mean that the first year or so can be time intensive. Older animals could fit your busy schedule better. 

Adopting a pet can be a wonderful, life-changing experience for both the animal and the adopter. Not only do you get a new companion, but you also get the satisfaction of knowing you made a difference in an animal's life. Adopting a pet can also have many health benefits, such as reducing stress, decreasing depression, and increasing feelings of companionship. Dog owners in particular benefit from improved physical health, since frequent walks is great for stretching your muscles and getting some fresh air. 

We had the honor to ask Nina Thompson from the San Diego Humane Society some questions about adopting. "Coming to a new home can be a big change for any animal, so it’s important that you give them time to adjust and feel safe in their environment. As they become more comfortable, you’ll see your companion’s personality continue to bloom! Adopting a pet is a lifelong commitment — whether you are drawn to a dog, cat, rabbit, guinea pig, bird, reptile or any other wonderful creature — and you should think about how they’ll grow with you. When you adopt a pet, you not only change that animal’s life, but make room in a shelter or rescue for another deserving animal in need of a second chance. Many shelters are at high capacity right now, so there’s never been a better time to adopt!"