The pros and cons of pet rescue

Pets share our homes, keep us company, and can reduce feelings of stress. They offer us companionship, go along with us on walks while exercising, and greet us at the end of each workday. They give us unconditional love.

So it's understandable that sooner or later you might desire to add an adopted furry friend to your home.

But remember that adopting a pet is a serious commitment. What kind of pet will be the best fit for your household? Consider how much time you'd need to devote to the daily needs of your new animal friend such as walking, grooming and playtime. What available space do you have? A small dog or a cat could be right for an apartment. A large dog might need a fenced yard.

Doing your homework in advance will make your search easier and increase the chances that your new pet will be a happy addition to the family.

Deciding to adopt an animal from a shelter or private rescue agency can be a huge decision on many different levels. Reviewing some of the pros and cons may help you make that critical decision.

Shelters large and small always have a good selection of animals looking for new homes. According to The Humane Society of the United States, 6 to 8 million pets end up in shelters each year and only about half of those will be adopted. You can find a variety of ages from kittens and puppies to senior pets that fit your lifestyle.

Unfortunately, almost half of the dogs and cats submitted to local humane societies in the U.S. are euthanized (about 3 to 4 million annually). By adopting a pet from a shelter or rescue group you are giving that animal a second chance at a new healthy life and happy home.

There are many reasons dogs and cats end up in shelters or rescue organizations: death of a guardian, new baby, change in work schedule, owners who develop financial difficulties or move to a place where pets are not allowed, etc. Some dogs and cats may be strays found out and about or may be brought in from other shelters.

Since animals adopted from shelters and rescue groups have had their first set of shots and have been spayed or neutered, they typically cost less than pets purchased or even acquired for free. Once you add in the cost of the vaccinations, spay/neuter surgery, microchip, dewormer, and other extras, you'll be surprised what a bargain an adopted pet really is!

One of the great benefits of adopting a dog older than six months or so from a shelter is that usually they are housebroken. But if you decide you want a young puppy, there are plenty to choose from.

Even if you're smitten with the idea of sharing your home with a specific purebred dog, chances are that there's a breed rescue group or shelter in your vicinity with just the right pup in need of a family.

One of the cons of adopting from shelters is that you may not be able to find the right breed or size of the dog or cat that you want right away. But don't be discouraged; sadly, shelters and rescue groups receive new animals every day, so keep checking back with them. Some groups keep a waiting list, so they can call you if an animal matches your preferences becomes available.

Another possible downside is behavioral issues with your new pet. Your new furry friend you've just adopted from the local humane society may turn out different than you expected. The act of being surrendered to a shelter or rescue is a traumatic experience on its own for a dog or cat, not to mention that you don't know what happened to them before they arrived there. Try to learn as much as possible about the animal you have chosen from the organization. They may be able to provide you a lot more information about the animal's background than you might think.

A last thought on rescue pets: They seem eager to please. Maybe they knew that without you, their days were numbered. Maybe being alone for a period of their life made them appreciate a family more. Whatever the reason, a rescue can fill your life with happiness.