Update your browser for more security, speed and the best experience on this site.
You know what you’re getting
When you adopt from a rescue group, you shouldn’t have many surprises. Because the dog has been in a foster home and seen a veterinarian, the rescue group will be able to tell you a lot about each dog and help you determine if they’re a good match for you. You’ll know what their personality is like, how active they are, and whether they are good with kids, cats, and other dogs. The dog will likely be up-to-date on vaccinations, and spayed or neutered. If the dog has any medical concerns, the rescue will share that information with you.
Housetraining
Many rescue dogs have already been housetrained, so odds are, you won’t have to spend a lot of time on potty training.
Skip the destructive stage
If you choose an adult dog instead of a puppy, you’ll likely avoid having your shoes destroyed. Most adult dogs are through the chewing stage, and as long as you provide them with suitable toys, they likely won’t chew things around the house. And when you adopt an adult, you’ll avoid those sharp puppy teeth too.
Training
Many rescue dogs have learned basic training, so they might arrive at your home already knowing how to do things like sit or stay.
Save money
Buying a puppy is expensive, especially if you choose a reputable breeder. When you adopt a dog, you only pay an adoption fee, which will be far less than the cost of purchasing a puppy. And, because the dog is probably up-to-date on their vaccinations and spayed or neutered, you’ll save hundreds or thousands of dollars more.
Prevent cruel breeding
It’s difficult to know if you’re purchasing a puppy from a reputable breeder, and if you’re not, you’re supporting cruelty. The dogs used for breeding in puppy mills are often confined to cages, without protection from the weather. They receive little or no medical care, and can suffer with untreated health issues for years.
A special bond
When you adopt a dog instead of purchasing a puppy, you’re giving a dog in need a second chance at life. Those who adopt rescued dogs will tell you that you’ll develop a special bond with your grateful new family member.
Save a Life!
One million dogs this year in rescue groups and shelters will be euthanized because there aren’t enough families willing to adopt them. Consider adopting one of them as your first choice!