Instead of buying from the flea market, pet store, or back yard breeder

10. Each hour, every day, over 3,000 dogs and cats are born in the U.S. Most of these animals are unwanted and many end up in shelters. You can save a life by adopting a cat or dog from the Bell County Animal Shelter.

9. Many dogs and cats awaiting adoption at the shelter are already housebroken! With most family members gone during the work day for 8 hours or more, house training is certainly an important consideration.

8. When you adopt an older dog or cat from the shelter, you already know how big the animal is, what his temperament is, how active he is and if he has been trained. Mixed breed dogs and cats tend to be healthier.

7. Adoption staff will work with you to make that perfect match. They will try and make sure that you are choosing the pet that will make both family and animal happy with each other.

6. Instant companion! When you adopt from a shelter, you immediately have a devoted friend for life.

5. You will be an example to others, and they may become inspired to visit a shelter.

4. There are puppies and kittens at the shelter as well as older animals. Whatever age you are looking for, you can find him or her at the shelter.

3. Purebreds can be found at the shelter. Experts say approximately 10-12 percent of animals in shelters are purebreds. So, if you have your heart set upon a certain breed, try checking with the shelter. They will keep you on a waiting list if they don’t have what you’re looking for.

2. The Bell County Animal Shelter provides the necessary shots and spaying/neutering for the low fee of $60. Spaying/neutering helps to end the tremendous pet overpopulation problem, is healthier for your animal and saves you time and money.

1. Unconditional Love! Your new pet will love you regardless of all other outside factors. Where else can you find that kind of devotion?

Information for this article is provided by the Friends of the Bell County Animal Shelter and The National Humane Education Society.

(Photo above: Bitsey is a 2 month old black and white female kitten available for adoption at the Bell County Animal Shelter. For more information about Bitsey or any of the pets at the shelter, call 337-6331 or 269-4367; or e-mail presnell51@newwavecomm.net)