Choosing where to get your new pet can be as stressful as applying to college. There are so many factors to take into consideration; where you live, how much you are willing to spend, and what kind of furry friend you want in your life. Many people who look into buying pets assume that the best pets come from breeders that are so conveniently half way across the country. Everything from dogs and cats, to rabbits and teacup pigs can now be bought from private breeders throughout the U.S. People spend hundreds and sometimes even thousands of dollars on a new pet. If you want that purebred Australian Cattle Dog that's great, but there are many pets living in shelters and humane societies that are looking for good home. So why not rescue your new pet?

1. You Will Save a Life

According to the United States Humane Society, 2.7 million pets are euthanized every year because too many pets are brought to shelters and not enough people want to adopt pets. Many of the pets that are brought to shelters are already socialized and friendly animals looking for loving homes. Instead of funding the continuation of breeding pets for profit, rescue a pet from your local shelter and know that you are making a difference for that animal's life.

2. Home Sweet Home

Many of the animals that live in shelters have already been socialized and make great family pets. You will not only be giving your pet a loving home, but your home will also be filled with love from your new best friend. All of my friends that have adopted pets have remarked on the positive transformation in their lives after rescuing their new companion.

3. Save Money and Time

Instead of wasting too much time searching for breeders and too much money on vaccinations, the costs of spay/neuter as well as vaccinations are usually covered under the adoption price, which makes bringing home your new furry friend much more affordable.

4. Happy Pet, Happy Vet

One of the biggest reservations that people have about adopting shelter pets is that they will have more health problems from being in the shelter for a long period of time. This myth is disproved by the fact that many of the pets are well taken care of by vets that work directly with the shelters. When you take your pet to the vet for the first time, the fact that it was living in close proximity with other animals will not prevent it from being healthy and happy when you take it home.

5. Cuddle Buddies for Life

Adopting a pet will give you the best cuddle buddy that will love to sleep on you when you are trying to eat, watch TV, do your homework, and go to the bathroom. Although you may question your sanity you will also feel incredibly loved.

You know what they say; whoever said money can't buy love has clearly never paid an adoption fee!