Adopting your first dog can be challenging. You have no clue where to begin, there are so many things to be considered. However, the very first thing to decide is where to get your pet from.

1. You’re saving a life

Shelters also have a wide variety of ages. Even though most people want puppies, I know some people, mainly college students, don’t have time for puppies so an older dog is a better option for them. When I was picking out my dog I knew what breed I preferred but going in I had an open mind. In the end, I got the exact breed I wanted, so that’s another great thing about adopting from a shelter. They have so many dogs to choose from.

2. You can find any age or breed you want

Shelters also have a wide variety of ages. Even though most people want puppies, I know some people, mainly college students, don’t have time for puppies so an older dog is a better option for them. When I was picking out my dog I knew what breed I preferred but going in I had an open mind. In the end, I got the exact breed I wanted, so that’s another great thing about adopting from a shelter. They have so many dogs to choose from.

3. Dogs are cheaper at a shelter

Cost was a big thing for me. I am a full-time college student with a part-time job. I pay my rent, I buy my own groceries and gas. So I don’t have much wiggle room with my budget. The dogs and cats at the shelters are far less expensive than animals at a pet store. Price does depend on the age at the shelter but I only paid $200 for my puppy. At a pet store, the dogs or cats are thousands of dollars. What college student has that kind of money? In my opinion, the best way to acquire a pet is to adopt!

4.You won’t be supporting puppy mills

I just recently adopted my first puppy from a shelter and it was the best decision I have ever made. The shelter I adopted her from was the Gulf Coast Humane Society. They spade/neutered all the dogs and cats that come into their shelter. Another great thing they do for the animals that come to their shelter is; they vaccinate them with all the necessary vaccines the animal need until they are adopted.