Let’s give a round of ap-paws to all the dogs out there and the pawsome people who rescue them! It takes a lot of woof to open up your heart and home to a furry friend, especially when they’re still learning not to leave you “presents” on the carpet. But we all know that dogs are worth it. They’re the ones who greet us with tail wags and sloppy kisses, who never judge us no matter our faults, and who are always up for a game of fetch (even if it’s the tenth time that day you’ve thrown the ball)
Adopting a rescue dog can be one of the most rewarding experiences in life. Rescue dogs come in all shapes, sizes, and breeds, and each one is unique with their own personalities and histories. There are countless reasons why rescue dogs are wonderful to adopt. And in honor of National Rescue Dog Day, here are 23 of those reasons!
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Affection
The snuggles. The hugs. The adoring kisses. There’s nothing like puppy love, especially from an ever-grateful rescued dog. Dogs are so affectionate that they’d follow us to the ends of the earth.
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Save a life
By adopting a rescue dog, you're saving a life and giving them a second chance at a happy lifetime with you. You are a true hero.
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Already housebroken
Many rescue dogs are already housebroken, which is sort of like hitting the jackpot. You can retire your big stock-pile of paper towels and carpet cleaner.
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Older dogs
Older rescue dogs are often quite relaxed. It often means that you can skip the whole “puppy-proofing” phase and go straight to the “napping on the couch” and relaxed walking phase.
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Socialized
Rescue dogs have often been socialized with other dogs and people, making them more comfortable and friendly in new environments.
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Health benefits
Countless studies have shown that owning a pet can lower stress levels, reduce blood pressure, and improve overall health.
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Companionship
Rescue dogs can be great companions for people who live alone or for families looking for a new addition to their household.
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Bonding experience
Adopting a rescue dog can be a bonding experience for the entire family, as you all work together to help your new pet feel loved and comfortable in their new home. We all want more quality time with our families and adopting a dog can bring everyone together.
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Breed options
There are a wide variety of breeds available for adoption, so you can find the perfect dog to fit your lifestyle and personality. One idea: Work proactively with a dog behaviorist or trainer when choosing your rescue dog to make sure they’re ideal to join your pack.
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Rescue organizations
Adopting a rescue dog also supports rescue organizations that work tirelessly to save and care for animals in need.
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Lower cost
Adopting a rescue dog is often much less expensive than buying a purebred dog from a breeder. Dogs from breeders can cost from $1,000 to $7,000, and more!
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Spayed or neutered
Many rescue dogs have already been spayed or neutered, which saves you the cost and hassle of having to do it yourself. Often, rescues can help guide you to low-cost options too.
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Training opportunities
Adopting a rescue dog can be a great opportunity to learn more about dog training and behavior, and to strengthen your own training skills.
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Variety
Rescue dogs come in all shapes, sizes, and breeds, so you can find a dog that fits your specific lifestyle and preferences.
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Unique personalities
Each rescue dog has their own unique personality and quirks, which can make them even more special and endearing.
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Emotional support
Rescue dogs can be a great source of emotional support. With their unconditional love, they listen to your problems without interrupting, and they don’t judge!
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Exercise partners
Forget your gym membership, because you’ve got a great exercise partner in your rescue dog! Many love to go on walks, hikes, and runs. You will, too.
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Good with children
Many rescue dogs are great with children and can make wonderful family pets. Growing up with a rescue dog is great for children because it teaches them responsibility, empathy, and patience. Plus, dogs make excellent audience members for impromptu dance parties.
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Unconditional love
Rescue dogs have often been through difficult situations and can show their owners an unmatched level of love and loyalty.
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Unique stories
When it comes to rescue dogs, the stories of their past are quite unique. For some, they might have gone through difficult experiences and will heal through your relationship. Rescue dogs often have a resilience and gratefulness that shines through.
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Feel good
Adopting a rescue dog can make you feel good about yourself and your impact on the world. Who’s a good pet-parent? You are! You are!
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Do good
By adopting a shelter dog, you're helping to alleviate overcrowding in shelters and giving a deserving dog a loving home.
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Forever grateful
Rescued dogs share a lifetime of gratitude. And the feeling is mutual.
Love to the pet rescue organizations.
We give utmost gratitude for these unsung heroes of the animal world. At Wondercide, we partner with many pet rescue organizations around America, such as Paws for Life K9 Rescue, Dog is My Co-Pilot, Austin Humane Society, Austin Pets Alive, and more.
These organizations dedicate their time and resources to saving the lives of animals in need, and we couldn't be more grateful for their tireless efforts. They rescue animals from all sorts of situations. Whether it's from a hoarding situation, a neglectful owner, or just being abandoned on the side of the road, these organizations step in to provide a safe haven for animals in need.
Once they've rescued an animal, pet rescue organizations provide much-needed medical care, including vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and necessary surgeries. And let's not forget about the emotional support they provide, too. Sometimes all an animal needs is a little love and attention to start feeling like the beautiful pup they are.
But pet rescue organizations don't stop there. They work tirelessly to find loving, permanent homes for their rescued animals. And let's be real, who wouldn't want to adopt a dog who's already mastered the art of the "puppy dog eyes" look?
To find your next best friend, reach out to our partner organizations, your local rescue organization, or go to PetFinder.com to get started.
We paw-sitively thank you.
There’s a reason people say, “Who rescued who?” While rescue dogs come in all shapes, sizes, and personalities, they all have one thing in common: their endless supply of tail wags and wet kisses. We honor all of you who have the compassion and courage to take in an animal who may have been through some ruff times. We salute your kindness and dedication. Here’s to all of the rescue dogs and the paw-some people who give them a second chance. You’re all barking-mad heroes in our book.
A few of our Wondercide rescue family members.
Marnie, a lab mix, rescued by Lacee in 2018.
Clyde, a Antolian Shepherd mix, rescued by Liz in 2014.
Ellie, a cattledog mix, rescued by our founder, Stephanie Boone, in 2022.
Bruce, a staffy mix, rescued by Alex in 2020.
