Having a pet is arguably one of the best things ever! Seeing their cute little face light up every time you come home, getting kisses, and giving them belly rubs, are just some of the many pleasures of having a furry companion. However, according to the ASPCA, nearly 6.5 million animals enter animal shelters every year, and of those 6.5 million, nearly 1.5 million are euthanized each year. That means 1.5 million animals each year will never know what it's like to find their forever home. Keeping those stats mind, here are 7 reasons you should never adopt a pet.

All of the pets pictured are available for adoption! Click on their name to find out how you can adopt them!

1. They don't play well with others.

(Pictured: Mandy)

While many shelter pets may have trust or abandonment issues, this does not mean they won't interact well with others. All these animals are looking for is someone to love them and take care of them. Over time, most animals can adapt to being around others

2. It's sooo expensive!

(Pictured: Polly)

The average cost of adopting a dog or cat in Louisiana is anywhere from $80-$150. This cost includes vaccinations, microchipping, any needed treatments and spaying/neutering the animal. On the other hand, buying a purebred dog from a seller can cost upwards of $500.

3. Shelter animals aren't cute.

(Pictured: Flurry)

Nope. Not cute at all.

4. They're super aggressive.

(Pictured: Poppy)

While some animals are more aggressive than others, shelter animals are not more aggressive just because they're in a shelter. A purebred bought from a seller can be just as aggressive as a shelter pet.

5. They're too much work.

(Pictured: Bailey)

While having a pet is a lot of work, I wouldn't say it's too much work. Having a dog, or any pet, is a huge responsibility, whether they come from a shelter or a puppy mill! While having a pet may be a lot of work, the love and affection you get from them in return is so worth it!

6. There are no shelters in your area.

(Pictured: Jenny)

Most parishes in Louisiana have at least one shelter where you can adopt a dog. At the end of this article is a list of just a few animal shelters in South Louisiana.

7. Shelter pets are really hard to love.

(Pictured: Little Darling)

Most animals in shelters are there because they were abandoned by the people they loved. These animals have so much love to give and all they need is a family to love them in return!

Adopting a pet not only benefits the animal but you as well. Studies have shown owning a pet can help decrease stress, depression, anxiety and other mental issues as well as improve your immunity. With so many reasons to adopt a pet, why wouldn't you? Here's a list of a few shelters in South Louisiana where you can adopt a pet of your own!

Capital Area Animal Welfare Society

Cat Haven

Louisiana SPCA

Acadiana Animal Aid

Animal Rescue Foundation of Louisiana