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Adopting adult pets saves lives

By Sara Pardys

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Published: Wednesday, October 8, 2008

Updated: Tuesday, August 11, 2009

When I was a small child, I wanted a pink dog. When I realized there was no such thing, I decided I wanted a puppy.

While I may have been the only person who wanted a pink dog, I certainly was not the only one who wanted a puppy.

At the shelter, there were very few puppies, and the shelter workers were hesitant to let my family adopt one because I was so young.

We ended up with a two-year-old mutt who eventually became a beloved family member.

Potential dog owners often overlook adult dogs in their search for a puppy.

Besides just being cute, puppies are an exciting project for a new pet owner, as they serve as a blank slate, which allows the owner to play a key role in the puppy's development.

The perks of adopting adult dogs, however, do exist.

Shelter workers can observe an adult dog's personality.

Whereas a puppy may only be in its initial stages of development, an adult dog's temperament will remain fairly stable.

It is impossible to know what to expect from a puppy as it grows.

Adult dogs often come already housebroken, so their new owners need not worry about accidents and messes.

A puppy, on the other hand, must be trained to wait until its owner takes it outside.

Many people mistakenly believe an adult dog will not bond with their family the same way a puppy will.

This is not the case.

As long as dog owners take good care of their pet, treating them with love and compassion, it will love them and remain a loyal companion for years to come.

In fact, many adult dogs are being given a second chance of sorts, as they have generally lived either with other people or on the streets.

This makes a dog even more appreciative and affectionate toward their owner.

Adult dogs are typically better pets for families, as puppies tend to nip and bite. For small children, this could be dangerous.

Adult dogs can also adapt easily to human schedules, as they are used to following their owner's schedule. Puppies must adjust to their new owners' schedules.

When considering adopting a dog, remember the advantages of adopting an adult dog instead of a puppy.

Remember all of the unwanted dogs who sit in shelters waiting to be adopted and never are.

These dogs are eventually put to sleep.

Adopting an animal is already an act of compassion, so why not extend it and welcome an adult dog into your home?

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