Adopting your pet can be one of the most loving and selfless acts you can do in your life. It is also one of the most rewarding experiences ever, just ask anyone who’s adopted their furbaby! Unsurprisingly, there are many ridiculous misconceptions surrounding pet adoption and shelter animals in general.

Let’s take a quick look at 5 common myths people believe about adopting an animal…

1. Shelter animals are there because they’re badly behaved.
   NOT TRUE! In reality, local animal shelters and rescue groups offer a variety of healthy, lovable pets who need a home for no other reason than because they are lost or their owners can no longer care for them. Many rescue groups screen pets for health and behavioral concerns, so if there are any real issues to be dealt with they will make you aware of any extra needs, and provide advice before you make the decision to adopt.
2. You don’t know what you’re getting at the shelter.
   FALSE! Rescues and shelters are dedicated to finding the perfect fit for their animals. It’s in everyone’s best interests for them to be open and honest about any special attention or needs your adopted pet may require, in order to find the best ‘forever home’ possible! Some may even say that adopting a dog at the shelter provides and even better indication of their personality than simply buying a puppy at a breeder.
3. Adopting one animal doesn’t make a difference.
   YES IT DOES! By opening up your heart and home to a shelter pet, you not only provide them with the security of a loving family, but you’re also opening up a space in the shelter for another pup or kitty out in the streets. Never underestimate the power of love!
4. Shelters don’t have purebreds. 
   THERE SURE ARE! A humanesociety.org study found that an estimated 25% of dogs in shelters are purebred. They come from all kinds of unfortunate circumstances, from families who are relocating, to families who just weren’t ready for the responsibility of owning a pup, or they simply got out of a secured yard. Whatever the reason, there are plenty of purebreds who find themselves seeking a forever family and that’s not excuse to skip the shelter! There are also many breed-specific rescues to be found online.
5. Shelters only have “old” animals.
   NOPE! If it’s a puppy or kitten you’re after, there are many up for adoption all over the world! A lot of dogs or cats are surrendered or found while pregnant. At any given time, shelters all over north america have litters of puppies or kittens in need of homes. While we urge you to consider an adult dog, don’t discount adoption simply because you desire a puppy – with a little research you’ll find one in no time!