posted October 05, 2012 01:11 PM            

October is Adopt a Shelter Dog Month, and that means it’s time to celebrate all things canine and get more homeless pups into forever homes. To get the party started, we’ve prepared a special Adopt a Shelter Dog Month section on ASPCA.org devoted to the lovable shelter pooch.

Speaking of Pet Adoption…
Earlier this year, we polled hundreds of pup parents—some who adopted from shelters, and others who purchased their puppies at pet stores—about their experiences during and after acquiring their four-legged family members. You’d think that the pet store-pup parents, who got exactly the puppy they wanted, would be happier, but that’s not the case!

Our poll showed that people who adopted a dog from a shelter were much more likely to be pleased with their experience than those who purchased a puppy from a pet store. Shelter dog adopters are also almost twice as likely, compared to pet store customers, to feel that the process by which they got their dog was honest and transparent.

Here at the ASPCA, we’ve long been convinced that shelter dogs are awesome and that adoption is way better than buying a puppy from a pet store. Now we have the data to prove it!

“The ASPCA’s research confirms that adoption really is the best option when it comes to adding a new dog to your home,” says Cori Menkin, Senior Director of the ASPCA Puppy Mills Campaign. “Most pet store puppies come from puppy mills, and we continue to urge those who are looking for a new companion to adopt a dog from a shelter instead of buying a puppy from a pet store. By doing so, you’re not only giving a shelter pup a new chance at life, but you’re also helping fight puppy mill cruelty.”

“And once you do adopt,” adds Menkin, “be sure not to buy any of your new pets’ supplies at pet stores that sell puppies!” Take the No Pet Store Puppies Pledge today.