Is it better to adopt or to buy a pet?

Pets are treasured worldwide, no matter the animal. To own a pet, one could adopt, or buy. Depending on the type of animal and breed, a breeder can be pricey, with a range of $500-1,500, possibly even more, while adopting can be around $0-350. Besides the price range, both are good options.

“Rescuing and adopting animals is probably the best option. While some are ill and end up dying young, that doesn’t mean they don’t deserve a fair home,” said Deerfield Beach High School sophomore Lavender Palmer.

Animal shelters serve as homes for rescued, stray, or surrendered animals. Unfortunately, most shelters tend to be overcrowded and some animals end up euthanized if not adopted on time. Adopting a pet from a shelter can save the animal and provide the adopter with a new companion. Many animals living in shelters are old or sick, and adoption gives them a comfortable home to spend their remaining days. Rescues tend to be less expensive and sometimes less work than a pet bought from a breeder.

“Some people are biased since they adopted an animal, but buying from a breeder can guarantee a healthy and young animal that will live a long life,” said DBHS freshman Sarah Parrish. “Honestly, the main issue when it comes to buying from breeders is probably just the price.”

In the United States, there are animal breeders who specialize in breeding pets, such as cats and dogs, and some who also breed livestock, such as cows and horses. While getting a pet from a responsible breeder can be more expensive, it often guarantees a healthy and relatively young animal, which leaves little to no worry about future veterinarian expenses. Pets bought from breeders also tend to be more social and friendly, rather than those from shelters who may be more afraid or could potentially be dangerous, especially towards kids.

“I don’t think it matters much. If you are willing to give a homeless animal a home, that matters more. However, I think it’s better to just rescue a pet, if money is an issue or if that is what you are more compatible with,” said DBHS junior Jermain Limprevil.

There is no wrong choice when deciding to get a new buddy; everything comes down to preference and budget. While there are some cons, such as illnesses or old age in animals from shelters, irresponsible breeders may breed the animals without concern for any genetic defects or health. Nevertheless, animals of any kind deserve good homes, so being able to provide that, no matter their origin, proves good for the pet and owner.

Written by Jennifer Landaverde | Graphic Designed by Jennifer Landaverde

Published May 9, 2024 | ePathfinder | Perspectives