Rescue dogs— my favorite breed of dog. As a proud owner of not just one, but two rescue dogs, I would not trade them for the world. When I was about 8-years-old, we adopted Roxy, our Rottweiler-Lab mix, with a huge heart, who acted like she was a lap dog. When I was about eleven, we adopted Ollie, an energetic Lab mix, for my grandmother. But, shortly thereafter getting him, she passed away, and Ollie was ours ever since.

Rescue dogs are a breed of their own, and I truly mean that. I remember bringing both of our pups home and they were scared—scared to enter a new world, without pain, where they would receive bundles of love, get lots of praise, walks and, of course, treats. They had to know they could have trust for my family and me because nothing could be worse than what they had already endured.

People say that these dogs need us, but in the real scheme of things, it's us who need them. They provide love unconditionally, they don't judge you and will always be there to listen, even though they can't respond. But regardless, any dog—rescued or not— will fill your life with love and those slobbery (sometimes smelly) kisses!

There is something special about rescue dogs. Despite not being able to speak, they have acknowledged the fact that you saved them. They give you extra kisses and constant tail wags reassure you that they know you helped save them. They bark a little more when they see unfamiliar people because they know you protect them and the least they can do is protect you.

Each time you fill their dog bowls, pet them or even just look at them, rescue dogs are filled with joy and thankfulness because you saved them and are giving them a life they never had before.

Approximately 3.9 million dogs enter a shelter each year.

Approximately 1.4 million dogs are adopted each year.

Approximately 1.2 million are euthanized.

I believe that we need to cut down on supporting puppy mills and breeders. We need to help the dogs who have very little chances of having good lives and be sure they have them. By doing this, the statistics of euthanizing dogs and dogs entering the shelter and then leaving, will be sure to change in a positive manner.

Adopting a dog has so many positives.

You'll save a live and, heck, they might even save yours.

When adopting, their first round of vaccinations plus the cost of neutering/spaying is typically covered.

Any animal, but statistically speaking mostly dogs, improve your self-esteem.

I always remind myself that these dogs may not be here for my entire life, but I get to be part of their entire lives, and they deserve the best of lives, and I will do everything in my power to make sure they have that. Rescue dogs will always be my favorite breed of dog.