5 Reasons You Should Adopt a Pet Instead of Buying

Have you thought of bringing a pet into your home? Adding a furry friend to your family is a
significant choice, whether it’s your first pet or not. And whatever your previous pet-owning
experience or your motivations for looking for a best friend are, you probably have some
questions. One of the most important ones is where to look for your future best friend. Your
initial thought could be to go to a pet shop or breeder and get a puppy or kitty. After all, this may
be how your parents did for you, and it’s all too often the story told in movies. However, there is
another option that people used to overlook: adoption. Fortunately, adoption grew in popularity
over the years, and people started to understand its importance. There are many reasons you
should adopt a pet instead of buying, which we would like to discuss in this article. Keep reading
to see why adoption is a much better option than buying.

1. Adopt a pet instead of buying one to save a life
Adopting a pet from a shelter not only saves one life but two. And now you might be asking
yourself whose life you are saving besides your pet’s. Truth be told, you are giving another
animal a second shot at a happy life and the possibility of finding a loving family. Animal shelters
are frequently overcrowded and cannot accommodate all the animals and provide them with the
comfort they need. Therefore, adopting a pet makes a difference by aiding a noble cause and
battling overpopulation.

At the same time, bringing home a pet from a shelter saves your life, too. How? You allow
yourself to experience one of the most extraordinary relationships there are. The appreciation
and devotion of a rescued animal are unique and life-bonding. After bringing a shelter pet into
your home, you will begin wondering who rescued who! So, if you are ready to have a pet, get
your best buddy from a shelter.

2. Make a stand against commercial breeding
Commercial breeding facilities, sometimes known as puppy mills, are an absolute hell for the
animals who end up there. Since they live in cages for their whole lives, animals cannot enjoy
affection, decent nourishment, companionship, or medical treatment. The sole objective of these
facilities is to produce whatever trendy purebred kitten or puppy is currently in demand. Most
animals bred there are then delivered to pet stores or sold online. The less fortunate exemplars
become breeder animals themselves and continue the breeding cycle. Therefore, when you
choose to adopt, you are doing your part to stop commercial breeding.

3. You get a trained pet
A few reasons can explain why even well-trained animals might find themselves in the
unfortunate event of ending up in a shelter. For instance, pets frequently wind up in shelters
because their owners discover they cannot care for them properly. They may also give them up
for several other reasons, such as illness, old age, or lack of finances. However, the good news
is most shelter animals will already know proper behaviors, basic training, and manners. That
implies that if you adopt from an animal shelter or rescue organization, you’ll have an advantage
in training.
Moreover, you can adopt an older shelter animal if you don’t have the time to train a small
puppy or kitten. Then, you can proudly take your new best friend for walks after you find the
right place for you and them in San Francisco. This city has many pet-friendly neighborhoods
where your pet can show off its impeccable manners, so your pet will be delighted if you
relocate here.

4. Adopting is much less expensive
Purebred dogs are costly when purchased from pet stores or professional breeders. Moreover,
rare breed puppies may run you thousands of dollars. As an alternative, adopting pets from a
shelter can help you save a lot of money now and later. When you adopt a pet from a shelter, it
often receives scheduled immunizations and routine health examinations. Furthermore, shelter
animals are often neutered or spayed. Some even come with an ID tag, collar, and microchip.
Given that average adoption costs range in the hundreds, not thousands, this represents a
considerable financial saving.
At the same time, once you walk out the door with a puppy from a pet shop, the transaction is
over. So if you have concerns or issues with your pet, many pet businesses won’t be able to
help you. On the other hand, shelters and rescue organizations have information on the
animal’s past, and volunteers get to know the animal’s personality. That makes adoption much

easier, as shelters and rescues are delighted to assist you during the transitional phase. After
all, they want the animal to go to a happy home.

5. You help others and become an example
When you decide to adopt a pet instead of buying, you are supporting a non-profit organization
that has dedicated a lot of time and resources to care for these creatures. You’ll also pass on a
message to those asking how you got your cute little buddy. You can explain how shelters and
rescues support the spaying and neutering of pets before adoption to reduce the likelihood of
more unwanted animals entering the world. Therefore, they are improving the community and
the lives of these animals. And even if your friends and family can’t adopt a pet, they can
contribute to a worthwhile cause by donating to these non-profit groups or becoming volunteers.

Final words
One of the most rewarding things you can do in your life is to save an animal. You can almost
always find the breed or personality you’re searching for because millions of animals are asking
for a loving home. Therefore, give shelter animals a chance and prioritize adoption. In addition,
help others discover the beauty of being a rescue pet parent by explaining why you should
adopt a pet instead of buying. You can start with the reasons we listed and continue with the
ones you discover after you bring your best friend home.

Meta: Are you thinking of becoming a pet parent? Here are the best reasons you should adopt a
pet instead of buying.

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How to Prepare Your Pet for a Move

Moving homes isn’t always an easy process. Organizing everything and making sure it all
goes as planned can be stressful. However, it’s not only yourself and your belongings you
must keep in mind. If you have pets, you need to know that the move is going to affect them
as well. Your furry friends may need some help adjusting to the new environment. It’s no big
deal, as there are many things you can do to prepare your pet for a move. We’ve gathered a
few tips and tricks to make it easier for you.

Talk to your vet
There are multiple reasons why you should pay your vet a visit before the move. Firstly, you
may need to get some health documentation for your pet. Of course, the exact documents you
need depend on where you’re moving. Once you get familiar with the regulations, your vet’s
office is the place to get all the necessary papers.
Every pet reacts to traveling differently.  This is why you should make sure to consult your
vet about your travel plans. There are many things to consider: your means of transport, the
length of the journey, etc. If necessary, your vet may also suggest some calming medication.

Take them away from the center of the action
Pets are much more sensitive to outside incentives than we are. Loud noises or new smells
can make your pet feel nervous and scared. Unfortunately, both of those are present during
the moving day. Still, there are a few ways to get around it.
Leaving your pet with a familiar person, such as a friend or a family member, is probably
your best option. This way, they will avoid the commotion of the moving day altogether.
However, we are aware that it’s not always an option. In that case, you should put them in a
separate space, away from the center of the action. As you’ll probably be busy throughout the
day, ensure they have enough food and water. It is also a good idea to leave them toys to play
with, as it will make them feel calmer.
Whether your pet stays in a separate place in your new home or with someone else, being
apart from you is not easy for them. This is why you probably want to get the moving process
done as fast as you can. Hiring professional residential movers is bound to help you enjoy a stress free process
and get back to your furry friend as soon as possible.

Try sticking to a routine
Moving houses is a big change for everyone, and your pets are no exception. The change of
scenery is bound to affect them in some way. Still, not everything needs to change. Sticking
to a routine they had before the move can help them adjust to the new place faster. For
starters, don’t make any changes to your pet’s diet and eating habits at this time.

If you have a dog, make sure to take them out for walks at the same time as before. This type of structure is
going to help with the adaptation process and make it easier for both you and them.

Bring familiar items to the new place
You probably have some items that make you feel at home. Maybe it’s your favorite coffee
cup or a beloved blanket. This is how your pet feels about their bed or their favorite toy.
These items bring feelings of safety and comfort to them. Relying on them to help prepare
your pet for a move is often necessary.
While it’s probably the most important one, deciding on a place for your and your furry friends is

only a part of the whole moving process. Unpacking after the move tends to take up
a significant amount of time. Before you get onto it, it’s useful to devise a plan of what gets
unpacked first. Some of the first things you should unpack are your pet’s bed, toys, and
anything else important to them. The smell will remind your pet of home and will likely calm
them down. Plus, they’ll have time to adapt to the space while you finish the unpacking!

Get them a new tag
Collars can be an excellent accessory for your pets. However, they’re also significant for their
safety. Your furry friends having a tag with your name, address, and phone number on them
is a must at all times. However, it’s imperative during the moving process.
The new environment is likely entirely unfamiliar for your pets. Also, moving is stressful,
and they might behave differently than usual. If your pet runs away or gets lost, it might have
difficulty finding the way home. This is why it is essential to get them a tag with your new

information just before the moving day. That way, even if they get lost, you can count on
your new neighbors to help get your pet home.

Give them some extra love
Showing your pets love is probably an enjoyable part of your everyday life. Still, in situations
where your pets are stressed, putting in some extra care is often necessary. Let them be close
to you during the drive or the plane ride if you can. Make sure you bring some extra treats for
the moving day and give them more cuddles than usual.
While our pets can’t talk, they still have their ways of transmitting information to you.
Learning how to recognize the cues your pet is sending is also very important. You’ll be able
to notice if the situation is getting a bit too overwhelming for them and react accordingly.
Knowing whether they need a belly rub or a calm, quiet space will save you a lot of trouble.

Conclusion
We know that organizing a move with pets can be a handful. With everything else on your
plate, you don’t want to be stressed about your pet being stressed. To avoid that, you should
take some time to prepare your pet for a move. Yes, it’s an extra task amongst plenty of other
tasks during the moving process. Still, it’s completely worth it. Your pet will be much
happier, and you won’t stress as much about them.

Meta description: Moving with pets can be a stressful process. There are different ways to
prepare your pet for a move so you can make it easier for both them and yourself.

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5 Fall Pet Hazards to Avoid

Now that fall is underway, pet parents can look forward to lots of cozy times with their favorite four-legged buddies, from brisk autumn walks to lazy afternoon cuddles by the fireside. 

But as the leaves begin to change color and that end of year excitement starts to fill the air, it’s important to be aware of the potential fall hazards that could pose a danger to your pet.

Changes in our environment and around our homes mean that pets can sometimes get into seasonal trouble if we’re not watching them closely. To help you prepare, here’s a list of five fall pet hazards to avoid, so you enjoy a safe and fun-filled autumn season with your furry family member.

1) Halloween Decorations & Treats

From decorative ghosts and witches to jack-o’-lanterns and candles, Halloween is full of fun (and potentially dangerous) items for pets. 

To help keep your pet safe on October 31st, make sure all Halloween decorations are placed out of reach, especially anything that could easily be knocked over or swallowed.

It’s also important to keep an eye on lit candles, as pets can easily knock them over and start a fire. If you usually have jack-o’-lanterns with real candles inside, consider using battery-operated candles instead. 

And of course, always keep chocolate well out of reach, as it can be poisonous to dogs and cats. Sugary sweets like candy are also best avoided, as they can cause stomach aches and other digestive issues.

2) Outdoor Hazards

As the weather cools down, we often spend more time outdoors enjoying the fresh air. But there are a few things to be aware of when letting your pet out into the yard this fall. 

First, take care to rake up any leaves that have fallen, as they could hide sharp objects like sticks or broken glass.

Second, be on the lookout for antifreeze drips from cars parked in your driveway or on the street – just a few drops of this sweet-tasting but deadly substance can poison a pet. 

Finally, as the days get shorter, remember that there’s less natural light for walking your dog. A reflective vest or leash will help keep them visible to drivers in the early morning and evening hours.

3) Holiday Foods

We all love indulging in seasonal treats during the holidays, but it’s important to remember that many of these foods can be dangerous for pets. 

Chocolate is perhaps the most well-known food hazard for animals, but other holiday favorites like grapes, raisins, macadamia nuts, garlic, and onions can also be poisonous to pets.

So, if you’re hosting a holiday gathering this season, be sure to keep hazardous food items properly stored and out of reach of curious furry friends. Here are a few healthy, pet-friendly holiday foods that are safe to share:

 

  • Pumpkin: This popular gourd is packed with nutrients like fiber and beta-carotene, which can help support your pet’s digestive system. Just make sure to remove the seeds and strings before feeding it to them.
  • Sweet potatoes: Another great source of dietary fiber, sweet potatoes are also rich in vitamins A, C, and B6.
  • Apples: Apples are a good source of vitamin C as well as antioxidants, which can help boost your pet’s immune system. Just be sure to remove the core and seeds before feeding them to your pet.

4) Fall Plants

Falling leaves aren’t the only things that change in color during the autumn months – many common plants also undergo a transformation. 

While some of these changes can be breathtaking, it’s important to be aware that some fall plants can be poisonous to pets if ingested. A few of the most common toxic fall plants include:

  • Chrysanthemums: These beautiful flowers can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and excessive drooling in pets if ingested.
  • Autumn crocus: Also known as Colchicum autumnale, this plant contains colchicine, a substance that can cause gastrointestinal upset, kidney failure, and even death in animals.
  • Hydrangeas: While the flower heads of hydrangeas are not poisonous, the plant’s leaves and roots contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and difficulty breathing if ingested.

If you suspect your pet has eaten any part of a poisonous plant, it’s vital to contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center immediately.

5) Cold Weather

As the temperatures start to dip, make sure to take steps to keep your pet safe and comfortable in the colder weather. 

Smaller pets like cats and rabbits should be brought inside to avoid exposure to the cold. Dogs will need a little extra help to stay warm as well, so consider investing in a doggy coat or sweater for them to wear on walks.

Pets can also get dehydrated in the cold weather, so make sure to keep their water bowl filled with fresh, clean water and check it often to ensure it hasn’t frozen over. You can  also give them some extra hydration by adding a little low-sodium bone broth or chicken stock to their food.

Wrapping Up

As you can see, there are lots of potential hazards for pets during the fall season. From environmental changes to foods and decorations, it’s important to be aware of the dangers and take steps to keep your furry friend safe.

By following the tips in this article and preparing ahead, you can help ensure that your pet has a happy and safe time. So, get ready to have a fun, fantastic, and fabulous fall with your best pet pals!

 

About the author: Richard Rowlands is a copywriter and content creator who works with pet and veterinary businesses. When he’s not researching, writing, or creating content plans, he enjoys spending time with his rescue dog, Otto, and exploring new places. Check out his blog for savvy pet parents at richardrowlands.com.

Photo credit: Mr_niceshoot Via Pixabay

How to Open Your Heart and Home to a Pandemic Pet 

How to Open Your Heart and Home to a Pandemic Pet 

There haven’t been a lot of bright spots during the pandemic but the fact that more people are welcoming homeless pets into their home is something we can all celebrate! If you are thinking about adopting a new furry family member to keep you company in lockdown, there are a few basic tips and resources you should keep in mind. So, whether you plan on adopting one of the available pets from Pacific Pups Rescue or another rescue, here’s what you need to know. 

 

Let’s Start By Getting Your Home Ready 

 

When you bring your buddy home for the first night, the last thing you want is for him to escape or swallow something dangerous. So spend some time preparing your home for the new pet. 

 

  • You’ll need some pet basics at home, like safe spots to rest and eat. 
  • Finding a pro to help to put up a fence can also keep your pet protected. 
  • Your pup might also appreciate having a little relaxation space of his own. 
  • Just be sure to remove any potential hazards, including plants and candies. 

 

Now It’s Time to Go Shopping for Supplies 

 

With your home organized and a safe space set up for your new furkid, you can move on to picking out a few essentials to keep him healthy and comfortable. 

 

 

Not Ready to Adopt? Foster Instead! 

 

We’ll be the first to tell you that getting a pet is a lifetime commitment. But if you’re not up for commitment just yet, you can still help pets during the pandemic by fostering! 

 

 

If you need a little more love and joy in your lockdown life, consider adopting a new dog or cat! The resources above will help you prepare for your new furry family member, but also know that you can foster if you’re not ready to commit. Either way, you’ll be helping a homeless animal! 

 

Photo Credit: Unsplash

Article by: Aurora James

PPR and the Pandemic! (What we’ve been up to)

Hello!

  Its been awhile since we posted a blog, and we wanted to update you all on what we’ve been up to at PPR!

  Since the pandemic started, we have been busy rescuing over 100 dogs and cats! We have had so many people step forward wanting to help with fostering, which has been the silver lining in all of this. All of the new pups and kitties have certainly kept us very busy!

Of course, with all of these dogs and cats came very hefty vet bills, and we’ve had so many generous donors throughout all of this, as well as relied on the sales of our dog toy line, Pacific Pups Products. 

We’ve adopted out record numbers of dogs and cats, all to great homes. Even a lot of our longest residents found their forever homes! 

We just started back up filming with the Hallmark channel again. We are grateful to be back showcasing our adoptable dogs on Home & Family – you may have seen Chiquito and King featured on recent episodes: 

Chiquito’s Hallmark Debut!

King’s Hallmark Debut!

We have also released 2 new lines of our Pacific Pups Products dog toys, which is what supports our rescue! 

You can check them out in these two Amazon links:

The largest dog rope toy on Amazon: 

https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_2?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=dog+toys+for+aggressive+chewers+dog+rope+toy+for+large+dog&field-brand=PACIFIC%20PUPS%20PRODUCTS%20SUPPORTING%20PACIFICPUPRESCUE.COM&field-asin=B08C7F79JD

Our new, fun 18 pack: 

https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_2?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=dog+toys+for+aggressive+chewers+dog+rope+toy+for+small+dog+rope+chew+toy+puppy+chew+toy&field-brand=PACIFIC%20PUPS%20PRODUCTS%20SUPPORTING%20PACIFICPUPRESCUE.COM&field-asin=B0876PRL18

So thank you to everyone who has either adopted, fostered, donated and/or volunteered with us during all of this craziness – we couldn’t have rescued this many animals without you.

 

*We are still a long way from paying off our vet bills, so if you’d like to make a donation, you can do so in the Donate & Volunteer tab