Want to make the world a better place? It's simple: Adopt a pet! There are millions of animals looking for loving homes in shelters all across the world, and there's no doubt that at least one of them is just waiting for you.
We've seen so many amazing stories about adopted animals who not only had their lives changed, but also changed their humans' lives as well. In fact, this adopted pup returned the favor to his family when he saved the life of their nine-week-old baby! Although our pets might not always save us in such a direct way, there's no doubt that they make our lives so much better just by being in our presence. But watch out — you might just end up taking more than one pet home from the shelter, just like this woman did when she brought both of these best friends to their forever home (not that it would be a bad thing)!
All of my pets are adopted, and not a day goes by that I'm not grateful for their presence in my life. If you're still on the fence about getting your next pet from a shelter or rescue organization, just check out these photos of pets before they were adopted and after they found their new homes. I can't believe number 6 is the same animal!
Don't forget to SHARE this post with everyone you know to help convince the world that adopting an animal is better than buying. There are so many animals out there that need loving homes, and it's up to us to help them!
1. Spacedog was a terrified stray when she was taken in by a shelter.
Now, she loves giving kisses and showing off her gigantic ears!
2. When Lucy's human found her, 70 percent of her body was covered with mange, and she was afraid of her own bark.
Now, Lucy is the best guard dog (and cuddle buddy) anyone could ever ask for!
3. Edie was on death row when she was saved by her new owners.
Now, this sweet kitty is clean and as happy as can be!
4. Juno looked like the saddest puppy ever while she was waiting for a loving home.
Now that she's home, just look at how happy she looks!
5. When Jack came home from the shelter, he was in bad shape. Someone had cut off his tail, which caused him to have numerous health problems. He was also malnourished and very dirty.
Now, Jack doesn't even look like the same cat! Check out that healthy coat and those happy eyes.
6. The pet store gave this dying fish away because they didn't think he'd make it much longer. His fin rot had eaten away large portions of his body.
Two months (and a lot of special care) later, this betta's loving owner had worked a miracle on this lucky fish!
7. Wesley was covered in mats and half the weight he should have been when he was rescued from under a car in 100-degree heat.
Now, Wesley has a new haircut and an amazing new life surrounded by love!
8. Misty's rescuer bought her for just $90 to save her from slaughter.
Now, many people can't believe that THIS is Misty, but it is! She's just much happier and healthier.
9. Gage was 35 pounds underweight, had severe mange, and was scared and aggressive when he was rescued from an abusive home.
Now, Gage is an affectionate (and photogenic) pup who loves frisbee and his new family!
10. Before coming to the U.S., Ginny lived her whole life on the streets of Taiwan.
Now, Ginny is out of her cage and the happiest dog around!
11. Noodle weighed only 23 pounds and was very sick when she was rescued.
Now, Noodle weighs a much healthier 50 pounds and adores her new family. It's amazing what just six weeks can do!
12. Wookie showed up on a rural porch in the middle of a snowstorm. He had worms and an infected eye, was missing a chunk of his ear, and was emaciated and terrifed.
Now, Wookie's problems are in the past, and he gets to spend the rest of his life enjoying the love that all animals deserve.
13. Ajax was once an emaciated puppy who couldn't even move his back legs and had a severe case of mange.
Now, Ajax is healthy and couldn't be more thrilled to be in his new home!
14. When Cooper was picked up by a vet, he had bad nerve damage in one of his legs that made it completely useless.
Now, Cooper might have lost a leg, but he gained a wonderful family and a better life!
15. Pogliacci was found under a car, where she was very dirty and very scared.
Now, this cute kitty has traded hiding under vehicles for cuddling in sweaters!
