by Sue Patten

Created on: November 03, 2008   Last Updated: November 24, 2008

It is far better to adopt a pet from a shelter than from a breeder for a number of reasons.

1) Most pets in the shelters are older and any bad habits or physical & emotional defects are already known. Therefore you have more of an idea - as much as is possible - of how horrendous future vet bills could be.

2) Any donations you make will go to help other animals being cared for by the shelter.

3) A breeder is interested in making money. A good breeder will try and ensure you are aware of the breed's needs but at the end of the day, they want to make money. A shelter has one concern and one concern only, the welfare of the animal. Therefore they will only let you adopt a pet if they feel you are compatible.

4) Most pedigree breeds of all animals have defects caused by breeding to achieve the 'perfect' looking pet. Some are emotional problems, some are physical problems. Many may not become apparent in an individual animal until it is older.

5) Every animal bought from a breeder means one more animal left to live in a shelter, condemning it to a lonely life. The shelter staff are doing their best but there is only 24 hours in a day and so many animals to care for.

Please visit your local shelter first. Ask their advice on what sort of animal is best for you and your family. You may decide to still visit a breeder or you may just meet some little cutie that steals your heart.

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