If you're considering adopting a dog, read this often-quoted quote from author and animal advocate Karen Davison:
Adopting a dog or cat from a shelter or rescue group benefits the adopter, the dog, and overcrowded shelters.
Best Friends Animal Society, the nation's biggest homeless animal sanctuary, CEO Julie Castle estimates that 355,000 dogs and cats were murdered in shelters in 2021.
Castle adds "it was the first time in five years that we've seen the number of dogs and cats murdered in U.S.
Shelters and rescue groups, including breed-specific rescues, can help you select the ideal pet for your lifestyle, the best dog for kids, a loyal breed or a cute mongrel, and the expense of dog ownership.
We discuss the questions you should ask yourself before adopting a dog, the adoption procedure, and how to prepare your home and yourself for your new puppy.
Before adopting a rescue dog, you should assess whether your lifestyle and situation are suitable for a new companion and whether you're ready for the 10- or 15- to 20-year commitment.