The joys of rescuing a pet

You are ready to expand your family and want to include a four-legged friend. Where should you begin your search?

There are many advantages to adopting a pet from a rescue group, humane society or an animal control facility rather than purchasing your next animal friend from a breeder or pet store.

First of all, the Humane Society of the United States tells us there are currently 4 million dogs and cats euthanized each year. That is one animal killed every 8 seconds. Most of these animals end up in these circumstances through no fault of their own. Issues impacting families to give up their animals are a baby being born, divorces, moving to a new home where pets are not allowed, a natural disaster or a lack of money to provide adequate care for the pet. This is an unforgivable statistic that can only be diminished by a focus on spay and neuter and rescuing animals when looking for a pet.

Most shelter staff or rescue volunteers become familiar with the animals they are caring for and can give you vital information about the animal. Typically, each of these animals has gone through a screening process that offers a comprehensive personality profile. These folks can match you to an animal that will suit your lifestyle.

Another advantage is that these animals will have had a physical exam and are typically spayed or neutered, vaccinated, dewormed and micro-chipped. Oftentimes, these animals may be housetrained as well. Shelter or volunteer staff are usually great resources for information about health concerns, training opportunities and grooming facilities.

The biggest plus for rescuing a pet is the knowledge that you are saving two animals’ lives when you adopt a pet. You are saving the life of the pet you are adopting, but you are also freeing up a space in the facility for another animal. Actually, you are rescuing a third being — yourself!

Enjoy your new rescued pet.

Angie Lewis is vice president of Alaska Dog and Puppy Rescue.