New volunteer Emma Kearn is writing a series of posts about the many reasons to Choose a Rescue Dog Instead of Buying from a Breeder

Millions of adoptable pets are euthanized in the US every year, and while no-kill shelters do all they can to save the lives of as many dogs as possible, there are always more dogs that need help.

Choosing to adopt a rescue dog rather than buying a puppy from a breeder may feel like a drop in the bucket in terms of helping solve the problem, but every little bit makes a difference, and there are many rewarding reasons to bring a rescue dog into your home.

A rescue dog is less expensive than buying a dog from a breeder.

Buying a purebred puppy from a genuine registered breeder with a good reputation might eliminate the issue of buying from a puppy mill, but it’s also an exercise in opening up your wallet as wide as it will go. The cost of the puppy can run into thousands of dollars, and that’s only the beginning, with additional expenses such as vaccinations, worming, and neutering in the near future too.

While insurance can cover many expenses, you do still end up spending much more when you buy from a breeder. It’s possible to find breeders who sell purebred puppies at deep discounts, but breeders that sell cheap pedigree puppies are all too often selling mill-bred dogs.

If you adopt either a puppy or an adult rescue dog, on the other hand, your new pet is vaccinated, wormed, and neutered—and if the dog has health problems, the rescue group will make you aware of them before the adoption, so you can make an informed choice about the dog you’re bringing home.

You're not only saving money, you're saving a life too!

More soon, Emma

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