A common misconception that dissuades people from adoption is that most dogs in rescue centres have behavioural issues. In reality, the vast majority of dogs are there through no fault of their own and fit perfectly into family life. Since I started volunteering at Foal Farm, I have seen first hand the wide variety of amazing dogs available for adoption: lazy/energetic, playful/calm, independent/loyal, puppies/oaps, big/small, purebreds/cross breeds – there is a dog to suit everyone. With such a diverse range of dogs available for adoption, I’m confident in saying that there is a dog perfectly suited to your family and your lifestyle sitting in a rescue centre near you, just waiting for you to come and give them their happily ever after. In case you’re not already convinced, here are my top 5 reasons to adopt your next best friend.

All pictures featured in this post are of dogs at Foal Farm who are currently waiting for their forever home. If you think that could be with you, you can contact Foal Farm here or fill out an adoption application form here.

1. The special bond you form is incomparable

There is something extremely special about the bond a rescuer forms with a rescue dog. My mum went to collect our rescue dog Teddy and the loyalty and adoration he feels towards my mum is incredible. Dogs without a doubt know when you’ve rescued them, and in return shower you with a lifetime of love and loyalty. What could be better?

2. You get to skip the difficult puppy stage

Whilst it is undeniable that puppies are adorable, there is nothing cute about coming home to a house full of wee and poo, being the chew toy for a teething puppy, or having your brand new GHDs bitten up (I’m looking at you Panda). What I’m trying to say is, puppies are hard work, so one major advantage of rescuing a slightly older dog is that you can skip the puppy stage and get straight to the good stuff.

3. Rescuing saves lives

For each dog you rescue, not only are you saving that dog’s life, but you are also freeing up shelter space for another dog to have the chance to be saved from euthanasia and find their forever home. So basically, you get a BFF and save lives. What’s not to love?!

4. You can find the perfect companion for you and your family

Most good recuse centres spend a lot time getting to know the families who come to adopt a dog. This means that they will be able to pair you up with a dog that will suit your lifestyle and fit perfectly into your family. Plus, rescue centres are so committed to ensuring their dogs find a forever home, that they offer ongoing support to adopters should you need any help/advice in the future.

5.  Rescuing feels amazing!

Rescuing a dog is honestly one of the most rewarding things you could ever do. Seeing a dog that hasn’t had the best start in life happily running around in a field or cuddled up with you on the sofa is an incredibly special thing. It’s pretty amazing knowing that you were able to give a dog a second chance and provide them with their happily ever after.

If you think you’ve got room for some unconditional love in your life, rescue a dog today, you might be surprised to find that they rescue you too.