I have been so blessed that I have never lived without a dog in my entire life. My dogs, past and present, are family to me. They're the ones I cuddle with when I'm sad, or talk to when no one else will listen. They're the ones who don't judge me when I eat a whole bag of Doritos in one sitting (as long as I share). We can all agree in harmony, dogs are great. But does it really matter if you purchase or adopt?

Tate was my third dog. My parents had to cave in after making a bet with me after my cross country team qualified for the state championship. If I ran a certain time, I'd be rewarded with a new dog. Well, I didn't make it, but I still got my dog, after lots of begging! My mom took my sister and me to the local dog shelter "just to check it out." Within minutes of entering the facility and seeing the dogs, tears were flowing. It's an indescribable horror to see such sad animals looking at you from a cage with hopeless eyes. It will break your heart. These animals were abandoned; their families gave up on them. I so badly wanted to save them all and shower them with the love they deserve. We came across a small, shy little terrier mix. She sat quietly, simply staring up at us without making a peep. Despite my mom and sister's objections, I got her out to meet her up close. As soon as the employee released her to come say hi, she ran and leapedinto my arms. Her face lit up, and she had a grin as she wagged her little tail. I was instantly a goner.

My family ended up falling in love with Tate, and we took her home a week later. I'll never forget holding her in the car on the way home. She sat on my lap, and the sadness in her eyes was no more. Ever since, Tate has been spoiled rotten with love. Her sassy attitude and unique character always leaves an impact on our guests and friends. There's something truly special about rescues; they have such appreciation for you. Tate hates to be left alone, in fact, she has been known to chase our car when she thinks we're leaving. Rescues will love you unconditionally, and will never give up on you. Sure, it might be tempting to buy a pup from a breeder, but adopting a rescue is an experience that's priceless. It's more rewarding than I can describe in words. I implore anyone that is looking for a new furry addition to their family to look into adoption. I promise, you won't regret it. Rescue a dog, and they'll rescue you in return.

However, living in a college town, I frequently see students that get dogs when they do not have the time to care for them, and the dogs end up being abandoned. I have seen dogs locked up in cages on porches outside in the cold because someone was too selfish to put the dogs before their own desires and convenience. Please, do not get a dog unless you have the time, space and love that they deserve.