Each year on April 30th, National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day raises awareness for thousands of pets who are in shelters waiting for their forever homes.

According to the Humane Society, between six and eight million animals enter shelters in the every year, and only about half that many are adopted into homes. If you’re in the market for a pet, here are three reasons to adopt a shelter pet: 

Cost Savings

It is much more economical to adopt a pet from a shelter than to get one from a breeder. Shelters charge a minimal adoption fee that often includes things like vaccinations, sterilization and disease testing. And here at Olsen’s we help you save money by offering monthly Family Rewards Specials on products you’ll need to take care of your pet, from food to entertainment to flea control. 

Adopt Adult Pets

Puppies require more time and training than adult dogs, and adult cats are typically a lot calmer than their kitten counterparts. Plus, both puppies and kittens are more likely to bite. An adult, even a senior dog or cat might be the perfect pet option for someone with young children or without the time/ability to train a puppy.

Life Saving

Because shelters are limited in capacity, they sometimes have to euthanize adoptable cats and dogs. By adopting a pet from a shelter, you not only save their life, but you make room at the shelter for another pet, essentially saving two lives.

If you aren’t ready to adopt a pet, you can support your local shelter in other ways. Give your time by volunteering. Not only will this help the shelter by providing the animals with exercise, companionship, and socialization, but will give you that joy that only comes from spending time with pets! 

Animal shelters require year-round assistance and adoption is a part of the process. Since animals come in daily, the shelters must work quickly to ensure the animal’s health and well being. Only then can they be adopted into their forever home. Today is a day to encourage you to visit a shelter near you and find your new fur baby. Visit with the shelter to consider all the needs the dog or cat requires, and be sure to check out our pet supplies for everything you might need for your new pet.