Pets are excellent additions to any household. Ask any veterinarian and they'll tell you that whether you’re a homebody or more outdoorsy, there's an animal for you. However, before you look for one, consider adoption instead of purchasing from a pet store or an irresponsible breeder. If you're wondering why this is an important distinction, here's what you should know. 

5 Reasons to Adopt Pets Instead of Buying

1. Save a Life

By adopting a pet, you're giving them a second chance at life. In many cases, you'll be helping them escape euthanasia. It's an unfortunate truth, but many shelters are sadly overpopulated and unable to house all the animals indefinitely. The Hawaiian Humane Society alone receives around 10,000 dogs every year.

2. Find One With Training

Contrary to popular belief, not all pets at shelters are strays. Many people are forced to give up their cats or dogs due to personal circumstances—such as relocation or divorce—that have nothing to do with the animal's behavior or health condition.

This means you’re likely to find one that's house-trained, especially if you pick an older pet. 

3. Improve Your Health 

Aside from the emotional benefits of companionship and fun, pets also bring perks to your physical health. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), regular walking or playing with pets can decrease blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and triglyceride levels. When you rescue one, you also practice kindness and compassion, which have been shown to make people happier. If you're looking for more ways to support your wellness journey, get a shelter pet! 

4. Avoid Some Costs

Taking a newborn animal to the veterinarian can become costly, especially in the first year. From the vaccinations to spaying or neutering, the necessary procedures add up.

Shelters usually include many of these services and incorporate the charges into the adoption fees. However, you should still inquire about their medical history and take them to a veterinarian for a checkup. 

5. Combat Kitten & Puppy Mills 

Finally, adoptions prevent kitten and puppy mills from thriving. These facilities prioritize profit over the well-being of the animals. This is especially true for the breeding mothers, who are sometimes kept isolated in cages.

Adoptions keep money out of the hands of for-profit breeders and into rescues and shelters designed to help pets in need.

 

If you've recently added a pet to your family, make an appointment with the caring veterinarians at Makai Pet Hospital. Located in Kailua, HI, this animal hospital has served the community for more than 30 years. They offer everything from extensive wellness exams to alternative treatments like acupuncture and laser therapy. You can learn more about their veterinary services on their website or call (808) 262-9621 to schedule an exam.