Every day the number of pets needing a home increases. Thousands of pets sit in shelters for years. Unfortunately, society has placed a bad connotation with animal shelters. However, they are one of the best places to get animals.

It is sad that many animals sit in cages never getting a home. Humane societies put a lot of time and effort into taking care of their animals, but it is not enough to provide for them. Animals need real families that can provide emotional attention and safety. Now that the recession has hit, shelters have to take on more animals from people that could not afford to keep them.

This is an important point to keep in mind. Many college students do not realize the financial and time commitment a pet requires. They miss Rover at home but do not realize that Rover Jr., the beagle puppy they just spent a few hundred dollars on, requires a great deal of training, attention and financial support. Pretty soon, Rover Jr. ends up one of the animals sitting in a cage at the Dubuque Humane Society.

If you can handle a pet, however, there are many benefits to adopting. Adopting a pet saves them from a life in a cage and wipes away potentially abusive past. Also, costs are lower. Adoption fees are often cheaper than breeder fees, and shelters neuter or spay animals and provide them with many shots and tests they need.

Last summer I adopted my first cat from my local humane society. The only difficult part of adopting is choosing which animal to take home. The shelters are very helpful and friendly in helping you find the right animal. All cages are labeled with names, ages, breed and personality characteristics of the animal inside. Although I originally wanted to adopt a kitten, I ended up falling in love with a cat that really needed a home. Adult cats are much less likely to get adopted than kittens, so please consider them when choosing your animal. Also, my cat is blind. Her chances of being adopted were even lower. By adopting her, I have not only acquired a great pet but provided her with a home that it was very unlikely she could have gotten otherwise. There is no better feeling than getting a pet you love and care for, and knowing you made a difference in their life.

If you are looking for a pet, or will be in the future, consider adopting first. Adoption may not be right for everyone, but even one successful adoption helps save the growing population of sheltered animals.

Stephanie Carley
Business Administration and Communications Technologies major