Facts
- Approximately 4 million adoptable dogs & cats are killed each year due to overpopulation.
- 25-30% of dogs for up for adoption in animal shelters are purebred. The other 70-75% are lovable, wonderful mixed-breed pets, just waiting for a chance to be your perfect new friend.
- In an effort to help people make good choices when they adopt a dog or cat, many humane societies, SPCAs and pet rescues provide adoption counseling to help match you up with a pet for adoption.
- If you have your heart set on a specific breed, before you check out a dog breeder or pet store, why not adopt a pet from a breed rescue organization? Breed rescues are groups that specialize in a particular breed of dog or cat.
- Don't be fooled into thinking that animal shelters and pet rescues are filled with dog or cats that were discarded because they're "bad". Shelter pets for adoption are wonderful companions who became the victims of family tragedy, unlucky circumstances or irresponsible owners.
- Many dog breeders and pet stores that supply the majority of purebreds are selling inbred pets without care for preventing genetic problems. Mixed breed pets have less inbreeding, less inherited genetic disease and lower overall vet bills! The best place to find a mixed breed dog or cat is at a West Side Animal League Adoption Event, a humane society or an animal shelter.
- Adopting a dog or cat from the West Side Animal League saves a life!
