I have wanted a cat for as long as I can remember. I would spend hours at my local shelter, playing with the cats. When I would go to my friends' houses, if they had a cat, I would be petting it rather than socializing. I wanted a cat more than I have ever wanted anything. However, my mom is allergic to cats, and my dorm wouldn't allow them. So, up until a few months ago, this dream was not going to become a reality any time soon.

About three months ago, while I was still living with my parents for the summer, my mom told me I could get a cat since I would be moving into an apartment the next month. I went to the animal shelter the next day. I fell in love with at least six different cats, but I eventually I found a kitten whose tag said she had been rescued from being thrown into a river. She kept sneezing and obviously had a cold. My nurturing instincts kicked in and I knew she was the one.

I adopted her and took her home that day. Lola has been my best friend ever since. She sat on my shoulder through the whole adoption process, and on the car ride home. I nursed her back to health and gave her a happy home. She loves to cuddle and no matter how many toys I buy her, she always prefers bread ties and hair bands. She would eat all day if I would let her, and she loves to sneak into the fridge when I'm not watching her. She is my companion.

She's helped me through stressful papers, a friend passing away, a breakup, watching my first car literally go up into flames, and she was there for the happy times, too. I'm a proud cat mommy and can't imagine how I got through life without her.

However, there are about 7.6 million more animals in shelters every year. 7.6 million animals that have the potential to be your best friend, your shoulder to cry on, and your pet. Only 35 percent of these cats and 37 percent of dogs are adopted. Even worse, 41 percent of cats and 31 percent of dogs are euthanized a year.

Unfortunately, most people get their pets from family, friends or breeders, and only 29 percent are from shelters. While it is great that people want pets and are obtaining them from these sources, animals in shelters are often living in less than ideal conditions and may face death if not adopted.

If you're thinking about adopting, please seriously consider adopting from a shelter. Many of these animals may never be adopted, and your one adoption makes a difference.