Top 5 Reasons to Adopt a Rescue Dog this Christmas Season
The holidays are fast approaching, and you know what that means?
Gift giving season is upon us!
But as exciting as it can be to see presents wrapped under the tree, sadly there are many who will be spending their Christmas alone in an animal shelter or rescue. In fact, approximately 3.1 million dogs enter U.S. animal shelters nationwide every year.
In my home country Canada, another 700,000 pets are waiting for loving fur-ever homes.
So, what’s the greatest gift you can give a dog this holiday season?
A safe and loving home. Maybe even yours!
Adopt a Rescue Dog, Save a Life this Christmas
Every December, I encourage people to donate to their local animal shelter. Instead of expensive gifts, my husband knows to purchase a few bags of dog food in our names. And although not everyone is in a position to adopt a puppy or dog, for those considering it, rescuing a pet from the shelter system is a tangible way to perform your very own Christmas miracle in an animal’s life.
Here are five reasons to adopt a dog this Christmas.
- You are Saving a Life
Unfortunately, December can be a rough time for shelters. The cold weather means dogs spend days indoors, surrounded by loud barking. This is very stressful. Plus, dogs who don’t get adopted can face euthanasia.
By adopting a dog from a rescue group or shelter, you could be literally sparing a life and stopping unnecessary suffering.
- All Breeds, Sizes, and Ages are Available
Have your heart set on a German Shepherd? Really want a young puppy? Good news. By adopting a dog around Christmas time, you will be able to see dogs of all breeds, sizes, and ages.
People are often surprised to even find purebred dogs in rescues and shelters, too.
- Older Dogs Come with Training
Third, an enormous benefit of adopting a dog is that they often come with training. Many pups already know basic obedience commands such as sit, shake, wait, come, go lay down, etc. from their life before surrender.
- It’s Less Expensive
Practically speaking, it’s also cheaper to adopt rescues. Let’s face it…the holidays are expensive! If your home has been waiting for Santa to deliver a dog (but the thought of spending thousands of dollars makes you hesitate), look into adoption fees.
Oftentimes, these range from $50 to $200.
And that includes things such as a wellness exam, vaccinations, and spay/neuter. Paw-some!
- Unconditional Love
But the best reason of all to adopt a rescue dog this Christmas season is of course, the unconditional love you will receive in return! In exchange for opening up your home (and your heart), a dog will provide years of kisses, tail wags, bum wiggles, and the purest love you’ve ever known.
As you can see, there are plenty of good reasons to adopt. Reach out to your local rescue or animal shelter today!
