Looking for that new pup? We can help you find that new furry friend at Mals Mission Rescue (Special Needs Animal Rescue & Rehabilitation).

Pet adoption is not only far more humane and ethical, it saves lives.

 

Some rescue animals were picked up as strays while others were victims of circumstance. Previous owners may have moved to a new home that did not allow pets, lost their homes, became ill, passed away, lost a job, or simply lost interest in their pet.

Estimates vary, but there’s no getting around the fact that somewhere around 3 to 4 million dogs and cats are euthanized (“put to sleep”) each year in the United States. If you choose to adopt, you have the gratification of knowing that you are helping to solve the problem of homeless pets in America.

You are also making a choice not to support puppy and kitten mills which are factory-style breeding facilities that put profit far above the welfare of animals. Most animals raised in these mills are housed in poor conditions with improper medical care. They are often in poor health and have ongoing behavior and health problems due to lack of socialization and human companionship, and are often inbred. Mill animals are sold to unsuspecting consumers in pet stores, over the Internet, and through newspaper classified advertisements.

By adopting instead of buying a pet, you can be certain that you aren’t supporting these horrible facilities.

Help is available. Rescue Organizations have adoption counselors to help you through the adoption process and find the best fit for your family. If your household includes children, other pets or even an elderly family member, prepare for everyone to visit the shelter when you are evaluating specific pets for adoption.

What you see is what you get: Adult pets are typically house-trained, know basic manners, may even know tricks, and are often already socialized around people and other pets. Be careful about judging an animal’s temperament too quickly though.

Variety is the spice of life: Animal welfare organizations offer a wide range of pets for adoption. On average 25% of dogs found in shelters are purebreds. You can find mixed breeds we well, and animals of all ages, size, temperament and medical condition.

Your pet has received basic health screening. Rescued animals receive basic veterinary care and, in some cases, extraordinary care if they have been sick, injured or abused. In many locales, pets cannot be adopted until they are up-to-date on required vaccinations, and sterilized so as not to contribute to pet overpopulation.

You may save money. Pet adoption fees are typically much less expensive than the costs to purchase a dog or cat from a retail store, or acquire one from a breeder. The money you save is that much more to budget for your pet’s needs, such as food, medical care and – hopefully – plenty of treats and toys.

You save two lives. The first life you save is that of the pet you adopt, and each adoption creates space in a rescue organization for another animal to be rescued. In this way, every adoption spares more than one life and adoption fees also help pay for food, veterinary care supplies and so much more.

Rescue groups often provide support for new owners because keeping pets in good homes is in the best interest of these groups. So if you are worried about health issues, want advice on what kind of dog food to buy, or have other newbie questions, the shelter staff will probably have opinions and advice to share.