1 — You’ll save a life!

Millions of adoptable dogs and cats are euthanized every year & shelters are always packed. By adopting from a shelter, you’re saving that animal’s life, but also making room at the shelter so they can bring in another animal — So really you’re saving at least two lives! And just look how happy our first foster dog, Frankie (originally Mary Jane at Dekalb Co. Animal Shelter), is in these photos. The pics on the left are her shelter intake photos, and the ones on the right are literally the day we brought her home.

2 — You’ll save money.

Buying a puppy can cost hundreds, if not thousands of dollars. Shelter adoption fees are drastically less than that, and often shelters run numerous specials throughout the year to encourage adoptions, so you could pay even less.

3 — Shelter dogs are the best dogs.

If you’ve ever had a rescue dog, you know what I’m talking about! They’re so grateful, and in our experience really want to please you! This is our foster-fail Razzy, she’s always the happiest girl and willing to do just about anything you ask!

4 — Shelters have puppies!

One of the most common reasons I hear for people bypassing shelters is because they want a puppy. Since we’ve been fostering, we’ve seen so many puppies come through, and they don’t always get adopted as quickly as you think! If you’re interested in getting a puppy, contact your local shelter or rescue and have them put you in contact with their person (or people) who regularly foster puppies. That way, you’ll have a direct line to the person who’s the most invested in finding those puppies good homes! These puppies and their mom just came into Lifeline in Atlanta this week  & will all need new homes soon!

5 — Having a pet is good for your health.

Studies have shown that not only do pets reduce your stress levels & help you live longer just by being there, but people with dogs are also much more likely to be active. So if you’re New Years Resolutions include getting fit this year, think about adopting a running buddy!

6 — Shelters can match you with the perfect dog!

Most shelters and rescues actually know all their dogs’ personalities really well and have an added interest in matching you with the perfect dog so he or she won’t be returned. The staff can help you find everything from the perfect Netflix and Chill dog (just like our first foster Frankie) or the perfect active pups like our two current shelter alums

7 — Most shelter dogs already know their manners.

Many shelter dogs come house-trained and with some basic obedience knowledge. Training puppies is HARD work! But if you adopt a shelter dog, chances are that most of that work will have already been done for you.

If you’re in the Atlanta area, we encourage you to check out Lifeline at Avondale, Fulton Co. Animals Services, Dekalb Co. Animal Services, or the Atlanta Humane Society. If you’re not in the area, your local county shelters or humane society can match you up with the perfect new best friend this holiday season!