10 benefits of adopting a pet

From companionship and loyalty to fun memories and adventures, dogs enrich our lives in countless ways!

The decision to welcome a dog into your family is a big one, however, because pet parenting involves dedication, perseverance, and a variety of responsibilities. Adopting a dog, instead of buying a puppy from a breeder, makes an incredible difference to the lives of animals in rescue centres, too. 

While there could be unexpected twists and turns along your journey to happiness together, we truly believe that the joys of adopting a dog far outweigh any challenges. So, let’s explore the top ten benefits of adopting a dog…

1 – You’re transforming their life

Dogs in rescue centres are likely to have had negative past experiences, which might impact their chances of a positive future. By adopting a dog who may not have known love and kindness before arriving at the rescue centre, you’re transforming their future by rewriting their life’s story.

2 – You’re likely to save money

When rehoming a dog from a rescue centre, it’s likely that the majority of basic vet care costs have already been covered, e.g. microchipping and neutering. Plus, your new canine companion should have received worming treatment, flea treatment, and be up to date with their vaccinations – allowing you to focus on getting to know them. Some rescue centres even provide a basic care package when they rehome dogs, including a collar, lead, and a little food as you embark on a pet parenting journey! 

3 – Your physical health will improve

Our canine companions inspire us to exercise every day, which gets us moving and offers amazing health benefits – like lowering blood pressure and improving heart health. 

4 – Your mental health will improve

Thanks to providing the motivation to get outside and make the most of nature, dogs improve our mental wellbeing, too. Our dogs also save us from feeling alone and empower us to be ourselves without judgement or expectation, which has an incredibly positive impact on how we feel.

5 – You might save a lot of time

Training a dog correctly requires considerable time and effort, especially if you take on an untrained puppy! However, if you rehome a dog, there’s a chance they’ve already had a great foundation in training and know all the basics – thanks to rescue centre professionals. Even if your canine companion still needs to learn the basics, rescue centre staff are there to support you. Also, you could visit our dog training series, which is packed with top training tips.

6 – You’re saving lives

Ultimately, the adoption fee you pay when you rehome a dog from a rescue centre can help to fund the charity’s efforts to rescue more animals in need. Additionally, when you adopt your dog from a rescue centre, a new space is created for another to be rescued. 

7 – You’re contributing to the end of puppy farming

By refusing to buy from an unscrupulous breeder, you’re actively helping to end puppy farming. Doing your research and choosing to buy a puppy from an experienced, licenced breeder who truly cares for the welfare of their dogs could help to encourage ethical breeding practices. Alternatively, through adopting instead of buying a puppy from an unregistered/unlicensed breeder, you’re preventing overpopulation and discouraging the breeding of ‘fashionable’ dogs who may have life-limiting health problems.

8 – You’re benefitting from ongoing support

Rescue centre professionals are there to support you and your new best fur-iend through every phase of their life. Though don’t forget that we’re here to support you both, too! Visit our dog advice guides to find answers to countless canine conundrums. 

9 – You’re matched with the perfect pooch for you

Thanks to the expertise and experience of rescue centre staff and volunteers, you can trust in the adoption process. Even if it takes a little time, adopting from a rescue centre increases the chances you’ll end up with a dog who’s perfect for you and your family.

10 – You become part of a community

Those who rehome rescued animals are doing something amazing and there’s a worldwide community of adopters out there waiting to connect with like-minded people.

If you decide to adopt a dog, we’d love to hear how you and your best fur-iend found each other – please share your story with us via Facebook or Instagram!