Choosing to #adoptnotshop is one of the best decisions I could have ever made. My rescue pup, Smokey, has given more love than I could imagine. It’s almost as if he understands he was given a second chance at love.

So many animals are lost, abandoned or surrendered everyday from not fault of their own. The Animal Foundation is a local shelter that works hard to give every animal the love and home they deserve. Still, many people have preconceived notions about adopting animals. Here are the myths we must break.

Rescue animals are troubled. 

This has to be one of the biggest myths of all. The majority of unwanted pets end up in a shelter or with a rescue group because of circumstances out of their control. Most animals are not aggressive or fighters. Many of them have owners who can barely take care of themselves or can’t afford to reclaim them.

Rescue animals don’t get along with children or other pets. 

FALSE. Rescue pets have just as much capability of loving multiple family members as a pet store pup. Many rescues may have even come from environments with multiple fur siblings. The first few interactions are important to make sure your current family doesn’t feel abandoned or threatened and your new pet feels welcomed. At first, my dogs were not best friends. My rescue was still unsure of his new home and my other pup was defensive. Eight months later, they cuddle in the same bed together. It just takes time and patience from everyone.

Adopting is expensive.

Adopting a pet has become extremely inexpensive for rescues and shelters. Every rescue pet will have a microchip, vaccines, spay/neuter and some training before heading home. All of these items combined would cost $1,000 or more! Still, giving a pet a second chance at love is worth every penny.

Rescues only have older dogs.

Many rescue groups may be breed specific, however many others, including shelters, are open admission. The Animal Foundation in Las Vegas takes animals in all conditions, of all ages and all species and works hard to help them. Other local rescues help a variety of animals all ages and sizes. There is not one breed or size fits all pet. When you find your perfect match, you just know it.

When my husband and I first met our Smokey, we knew we were going to take him home. If you are interested in adding a furry member to your family, choose to adopt not shop and save a life.

You can read Smokey’s adoption story here.