12 REASONS TO RESCUE A DOG

Over the years, I have rescued many dogs and supported several rescue organizations. I’d like to say that I have always been responsible and committed to making choices that are in the best interest of all animals. That’s not the case.

My blog has mostly been about my struggles with addiction and my road to recovery. As I look at my three beautiful rescues staring back at me, I wanted to write for them and all of the wonderful people out there making it their life’s work to educate the public and find loving homes for millions of dogs that will otherwise be euthanized or spend their lives without a loving family.

In my younger years, I bought puppies from pet stores and didn’t care for them like they deserved. That’s really an understatement. I was an unfit pet owner. Those dogs aren’t here anymore and I can’t change the past. Because service work is a vital component to a life of recovery, I have made it a priority to make amends to those animals by doing what I can to spread the word and become an advocate for the millions of animals abandoned and euthanized every year in this country. This blog is not intended to criticize responsible breeders. There are many.

1. SAVE THREE LIVES

The moment you leave the rescue with your new best friend, you have saved his life. Over a million dogs are euthanized in shelters every year and more than half of the ones in shelters will be euthanized. Hard to imagine, right? The shelters that don’t kill their animals can’t take a new one in until they have room. When you adopt, you make room for the organization to bring in another one for consideration, ultimately saving that life, too. Finally, most of the people I’ve known with rescues in their family talk about how they thought they were saving a life but the dog actually saved theirs! Hop on social media and join a rescue group and read the comments. I’m sure you’ll agree the stories are so touching and heart-felt.

2. UNCONDITIONAL LOVE

Most dogs will give you unconditional love but a rescue dog gives the impression of “knowing” they have been chosen and saved. The “eyes are the window to the soul” quote is best felt by the owner of a rescue. The way they look at us and wait for validation is a perfect example of their gratitude.

3. ELIMINATE PUPPY MILLS

Puppy mills are dog breeding businesses that focus on profit as their main objective. Did you know the average dog used for breeding in a puppy mill spends most of her life in a cramped cage with little or no room to move about freely? Many don’t have time to recover from one litter before being forced to have another. Once they can no longer produce puppies, many are killed without ever having a chance at a peaceful and loving existence. The puppies born in this environment lack socialization skills and often have numerous health problems.

4. FIND THE "RIGHT FIT" FOR YOUR FAMILY

If you have decided that adopting a rescue is the right move, you can take the family and find the right match. Most of the time, the rescue organization will have spent enough time with the dogs to understand their personalities and needs. This often results in a union that works for everyone.

5. ADOPTION FEES HELP SUPPORT THE EFFORTS OF RESCUE ORGANIZATIONS

When you rescue and pay the adoption fee you are helping the organization cover the expenses needed to continue their work. They depend on donations and financial support entirely and often use their own resources to cover costs. Even though a small adoption fee is usually required, it’s still a lot cheaper than buying from a breeder. It’s even better if you commit to making a small donation monthly or yearly to help the organization continue its important work.

6. GIFT OF A SECOND CHANCE

So many dogs end up in a shelter with a sad story in tow. Many have been neglected and abused. Finding a loving family to give them a chance to grow and flourish is a very selfless act and is a gift they more than deserve.

7. GAIN A WORLDWIDE RESCUE FAMILY

The network of people dedicating their time and efforts to provide loving homes for these animals is enormous. They share stories, advice, training tips, progress, and pictures on a regular basis. Find a group with a similar breed or story and you will gain an army of supporters and friends!

8. PROPER MEDICAL CARE

When you adopt from a reputable rescue organization, you can be sure the animals have had proper medical care and any medical conditions will be disclosed. Many senior dogs wind up in shelters for various reasons. If finances permit, it’s a wonderful opportunity to provide a home to a senior to live out their years in comfort and dignity.

9. BECOME AN INSTANT SUPERHERO

Did you ever dream of being a superhero as a kid? When you rescue a dog, that’s exactly what you will be. Provide them with love, affection, and proper nutrition and you will always wear a virtual cape in their eyes.

10. EXPERIENCE LOYALTY ON STEROIDS

Most dogs are loyal if trained properly but a rescue will repay the gift of having a home with fierce loyalty and devoted friendship. Their allegiance to their new hero is a lesson for all of us mere humans.

11. SKIP THE PUPPY STAGE

Bringing a puppy home is a true commitment and can take years to train. If a busy life prohibits you from devoting the time needed to ensure constant attention and dedication, it isn’t hard to find the perfect fit in an adult canine. Many are surrendered to rescues already trained and house-broken. Of course, puppies are always available if you are in a position to take on such a responsibility.

12. BECOME AN AMBASSADOR FOR THE RESCUE MOVEMENT

When you find your new furry family member, you will want to spread the word and tell others about the wonderful organization that helped create the bond you now share. You will find yourself dedicated to spreading the word and helping others become responsible pet owners.

If you’d like to hear the wonderful story of my favorite rescue, please click on the following link. Check out their amazing documentary called “Life In The Doghouse”. You’ll have a whole new respect for the work of these wonderful non-profit organizations.

https://www.dannyronsrescue.org