I'm starting off this new week with a look at rescue dogs. Why? Because, if you didn't already know it, rescue dogs are the best! it's also a very special day; National Rescue Dog Day recognizes all the benefits of allowing a four-legged canine to adopt you into their immeasurably lovable life. Did you know that 3.e million dogs enter shelters in the US each and every year? If that statistic isn't bad enough, the facts get worse. Many of these wonderful creatures will never find their way out alive.
"Rescue dogs often overcome extreme obstacles and yet provide comfort, security, and friendship as family pets. But, rescue dogs are capable of much more. With training, they contribute to the independence of people with disabilities as service animals and give comfort to the elderly. In these circumstances, they become our eyes, ears, or legs as well as our best friend."
rescue dogs provide therapeutic benefits, as well, not only to children and teens but to adults suffering from autism or phobias, by keeping the person feeling safe and grounded. "As emotional support companions, rescue dogs help to relieve anxiety, depression, and PTSD among the military or those who suffer from mental illness."
So let's take a look at a few other awesome facts about rescue dogs.
1. 20%-30% of all rescue dogs are purebred. Yep. Everything from Chihuahuas to Great Danes can wind up at a rescue shelter. If you're looking for a breed-specific dog, always check with your local shelter first. You never know what you'll find...or what will find YOU!
2. The average age of shelter dogs is 18 months. That means these dogs still have plenty of youthful playfulness if that's what you're looking for. But if you're not, they have a wide array of older animals who still have plenty of love to share.
3. Science shows that dog owners are less stressed thanks to hormonal and chemical changes that occur from spending time with their pups! All the more reason to snuggle a shelter buddy.
4. Does the thought of high medical bills make you "paws" when it comes to shelter dogs? Well, a whopping 90% of animals entering the shelter system are healthy and ready-to-adopt!
5. Your pup could be the next rags-to-riches story! Instagram cutie, Tuna started out on the wrong side of the tracks, but now he’s made good to the tune of 700 k followers and is doing good for other pups thanks his fame.
6. Mix-breed dogs, commonly known as mutts, are smarter than most purebred dogs, making them easier to train. Most movie and TV producers cast musts just for that reason!
7. Being a pup parent doesn’t have to cost you a tail and a leg! Did you know about 65% of pet owners acquire their pets for free or at a low cost? And, many communities now offer monthly low-cost mobile vets clinics for basic routine medical stuff and shots. it's never been cheaper to own a pet. And, finally....
8. You can get full details about their likes/dislikes, habits, and personality. Think of it this way; adopting a shelter dog is like meeting your significant other through the world's most reliable dating service: Shelter workers, volunteers and foster families have already checked out your potential puppy soulmate for you. No more blind date jitters. "Gosh, I hope he gets along with children" or "Does she like outdoor activities," or "Will he judge me for the inexplicable amount of trashy reality television on my DVR"? With a shelter dog, you'll know the answers BEFORE you get him or her home. Well, except to maybe that last question. But animals are never judgy. So no worries!
When it comes to four-legged friends, they improve the human condition by leaps and bounds, barks, and yips. It’s hard to imagine a more helpful, worthy companion. Give them a treat...and yourself one, too, by adopting a shelter dog. And spend a couple of hours each week volunteering at your local shelter. It'll do you, and the critters, a world of good.
Please join me back here tomorrow for a look at a few of the world's smallest countries. Some of them are so small, they might surprise you!
Until then, I wish you licks and puppy love.
PEACE.
https://barkpost.com/good/mindblowing-facts-about-shelter-dogs/
http://www.vetstreet.com/our-pet-experts/5-reasons-shelter-dogs-are-the-best-dogs