Don't have a pet and thinking about getting one? Should you adopt or should you buy one? Are you not sure? Well, I decided to adopt a cat and it was one of the best decisions I could have ever made. He fills my heart and I fill his and I couldn't be happier!

1. Emotional support and comfort

Animals serve as a great source of support and comfort. You are their mother or father—the person they go to when they are in need of love and attention. But not only do they seek it, they give it. You are number one in their hearts. Animals are smart. They can sense when their owner is feeling upset. My cat, Ryder, knows when I’ve had a bad day because as soon as I walk in the door if I go straight to my room, he immediately sprints to my room, jumps on my bed, and prepares to take a nap and cuddle with me.

2. Responsibility

You are taking responsibility for someone other than yourself. You have to feed, bathe and play with your pet. You even have to take it to the doctor when it is sick. Essentially, it’s like taking care of another human. It is a responsibility you will love having!

3. Endless amount of cute pictures

The number of pictures I have taken of Ryder… I have lost count and he’s only 5 months. Adopted pets seem to have all different facets of their personality. They do funny, cute and crazy things and you always tend to catch them on camera. There isn’t one picture you’ll post that won’t get a ton of likes and comments on social media. Pets are just downright adorable and I haven’t met anyone who doesn’t like them. Well…with the exception of my stepdad maybe—he’s going to kill me if he reads this.

4. Adopting benefits everyone involved

Adopting a pet is incredible! You are choosing a pet that is in dire need of a home and deserves to be cared for by someone who can provide a loving and safe environment. Not only does adopting benefit the pet, but it also benefits the adoption agency. You are helping them succeed at their mission of finding loving homes for these neglected animals.