Adopt, don’t shop is a phrase I learned only a few years ago while working as a doggy daycare teacher. It is a phrase easier said than done.

I currently have two pets, both adopted. Bori (literally translates into Barley in English), my cat, was adopted back in 2016 during the darkest years of my life. Yeondu (literally translates into Light Green in English), my dog, was adopted in 2021.

There are a few reasons that people hesitate to adopt.

Here are some misunderstood concepts of stray dogs and cats:

1. Strays or abandoned dogs are traumatized and will never learn to trust again
2. Adopting at a later stage in life decreases affection towards its owner
3. Stray animals were abandoned for a reason
4. “Pure-bred” pets are cuter and easier to domesticate

After spending so many amazing years with my pets, I have learned that strays and rescues are not always what people think they are. They are as sweet and affectionate as any other pet from the kennel or pet store, and sometimes even better!

There are also many perks to having mixed breed pets, such as:

1. Saving a life
2. Less genetic health concerns
3. Costs less money to adopt
4. Amazing community
5. Helps fight puppy mills and illegal breeding

Many breeds of dogs were made by humans to fulfill our greed. Working as a doggy daycare teacher, I also realized that many of those animals suffer from genetic diseases. When it comes to bringing in a new furry family member, I would strongly advise adopting a pet. Not only is it less expensive, but it also comes with a special community of warm-hearted people.

As time goes by, I realize that having a pet is more than just being around cute animals. It requires responsibility, empathy, and a lot of patience. I don’t know how many more years I will have with these two. But one thing I am sure of is that they have changed me for the better.