Every year, millions of animals are euthanized because there is limited space in shelters, and no one chooses to adopt them. Millions of animals out there lose the opportunity to find an amazing home full of family and love. There are many no-kill shelters or adoption agencies out there that will keep an animal until they are adopted, but it’s heartbreaking none the less. While an animal is safe in an adoption agency, they are not in a permanent home. The animals need a home where they will be loved, where they can run around and play, and where they can happily spend the rest of their lives. There are a number of reasons why we should go out right now and adopt an animal from a shelter, but here are my top four reasons.

1. You Are Saving a Life

This is by far the most important reason. When you adopt an animal you are saving them from being euthanized or going to a home where they won’t be cared for or treated correctly. When you adopt a pet, you are giving them a new life filled with love.

2. You Are Gaining a New Member of the Family

If you are anything like me, your pet is an important part of the family. You care for them when they are sick, play with them, you even let them sleep on your bed. They are loved, and as odd as this may sound, they can make you feel loved in return.

3. You Are Making a Difference

Did you ever stop to think that if you adopted an animal, there would then be one less animal that could end up being euthanized? You could make a difference by adopting, and by being the voice of adoption. Some people don’t know how to adopt or the details of adopting an animal from a shelter. If we take the time to learn more about adoption and spread the word, more and more animals could be saved.

4. Adoption Has All Kinds of Benefits

Many adoption agencies will pay for the pet to get their shots, get spayed/neutered, and micro-chipped. This means the animal will be in good health and ready to enjoy all the memories with their news owner.

Adoption isn’t for everyone. Maybe there are things keeping you from being able to adopt, such as allergies, financial problems, your landlord won’t allow pets, and many more. The amazing thing is, adopting a pet isn’t the only way you can help out these animals. Adoption agencies and shelters are always looking for volunteers, donated items, monetary donations, and people to help spread the word on all the animals available. Every little bit counts, and every ounce of help can change the lives of so many pets looking for their new homes. I encourage everyone out there to try and adopt an animal at some point in their life. It is a very rewarding experience to know you saved a life while gaining a new cuddle buddy in the process.