• 11. August 2025.

• Adoption

• Marko

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Adopt – Don’t Shop

When considering adding a dog to your family, one of the most important decisions you will make is whether to adopt from a rescue organisation or purchase a puppy from a breeder. While both options can result in a loving companion, adoption offers life-changing benefits — not just for the dog, but for you as well.

A persistent misconception is that rescue dogs are in shelters because they are “problem dogs” — perhaps aggressive, untrainable, or burdened with costly medical needs. Some believe that because someone else has given them up, they must be undesirable. In reality, nothing could be further from the truth.

The majority of dogs in shelters are there through no fault of their own. Often, they are much-loved pets whose owners can no longer care for them due to illness, relocation, or financial hardship. Sometimes, an elderly dog finds themselves homeless after their owner passes away and family members are unable to take them in — perhaps due to housing restrictions or because they already have pets.

Many rescue dogs are strays, born on the streets with no one to care for them, or survivors of neglect and abuse who have been removed from harmful situations by local authorities. For these dogs, the shelter is a safe haven — but what they truly long for is a permanent home where they can experience stability, kindness, and love.

Contrary to another common myth, it is rare to encounter dangerous dogs in reputable shelters. Animals deemed a serious threat to public safety are not made available for rehoming; instead, they are handled with humane and ethical considerations to prevent harm. The vast majority of rescue dogs are gentle, loving, and eager to bond with a new family.

While it is true that puppies are easier to train from an early age, and some people prefer to raise a dog from eight weeks old or choose a specific breed, adoption offers its own rewards. By visiting your local rescue, you may be surprised at how quickly you connect with a dog whose personality matches your lifestyle.

At Farmica, for example, you’ll find a remarkable variety of beautiful, affectionate dogs — from playful youngsters to wise seniors — all patiently waiting for a second chance. These are not “second-hand” animals; they are loyal companions in search of the right home, and the love they give in return is immeasurable.

When you adopt, you are not just gaining a pet — you are saving a life, breaking the cycle of homelessness, and making space for another animal in need.

Authored by Tina Digby