Adopt, don’t shop, collegiettes.
When it comes to our furry friends, dogs and cats specifically, it can be tempting not to go straight to a breeder and purchase that adorable Pomeranian puppy or Scottish Fold kitten. Yes, these breeds are beyond cute and, straightforwardly put, simply irresistible to behold, especially if you are an animal lover like myself. However, a fact that many of us choose to ignore is that breeding animals as merchandise is completely wrong. Essentially, this is what breeders do. Sure, none of us are perfect, and, of course, animals born due to forced breeding all deserve homes as much as the next pet. But when you buy from a breeder, collegiettes, do you know what you are really supporting?
Every time a dog or cat is purchased from a breeder, another dog or cat abandoned at a shelter risks being euthanized. Imagine if you were forced to give up your own life because no one wanted you as a child? This is sadly a reality for 1.2 million dogs and 1.4 million cats every year in the United States, according to the ASPCA.
Moreover, purebred dogs and cats born as a result of inbreeding often suffer from excruciating and life-threatening deformities due to genetic manipulation. Imagine being a pug or bulldog and not being able to go on your daily walk or even breathe normally because of so many generations of breeding?
The point is, collegiettes, if you’re looking for a new furry friend to add to your family, go to your nearest animal shelter instead of a breeder – you will be saving a life and taking a stand against a cruel practice.
In fact, after speaking with Ashley Headen, the current Executive Secretary of Woof Forest, Her Campus was inspired to help bring awareness and support to the homeless dogs and cats right here in Winston-Salem. Woof Forest is an organization on campus that was founded in 2011 by alumna Maria Vogel. It strives to bring awareness and support to homeless dogs and cats in the Winston-Salem community, specifically at the Forsyth Humane Society, by raising money for the shelter through events its members host during the school year.
So, collegiettes, if you are looking to adopt a new family member, make sure you check out some of the loveable, furry guys below. Each one of these little beauties is available for adoption at the Forsyth Humane Society in Winston-Salem, located on 61 Miller Street. Here at Her Campus, they have already stolen our hearts and the spotlight as this week’s Campus Celebrity:
Finn, male, age 1
Hi! I’m Finnegan. My foster mom says that I’m a really sweet and handsome boy. I’m doing a great job learning my manners and a few tricks. I’ll do anything for a yummy treat! Besides that, I have all my vaccines, I’m neutered, and I’m house and crate trained! My two favorite things to do are play with my toys and hang out with my foster mom. I pretty much go everywhere she does! I think deep down she wants to keep me, but she says I need a new home. I guess our house is too small for me and my two foster fur brothers (and they’re too grumpy to play anyway!). How about I come and live with you?
Ivy, female, age 9
Deanie, male, age 6
Hi, I’m Deanie! I’m a sweet and ACTIVE little guy. I would be great in a home with lots of room to run and play! I am also great with kids and other dogs.
Peter, male, age 4
Kelly, female, age 1
Mike, male, age 3
Greg, male, age 4
Sammy, male, age 6
Sammy is a very sweet dog and would be great in a calm home setting. Although Sammy loves children (current family has a toddler), he can get rowdy with too much horseplay. He likes to play and run but also enjoys being inside and getting belly rubs. He thrives on attention. He loves older people. He can be clumsy at times and has to be reminded he is not a puppy. He is housetrained and does not jump on furniture. He sleeps on his blanky and is crate trained. He is a family pet, but current circumstances have now made it too difficult for his family to keep him. His family is upset to lose him but will find comfort in knowing he is going to a good home.
Roxie, female, age 4
Shiloh, male, age 4
Scooter, male, age 8
Marcus, male, age 5
Marcus is a big boy at 14 lbs, is up to date on vaccines, neutered and litter trained, appr. 5 years old. Unfortunately, Marcus was either abandoned or lost. He was lucky to find a kind soul to feed him until he could be rescued and fostered while a furever home is found for him. He would be the perfect kitty for someone seeking companionship. He loves neck rubs, sweet attention and is very friendly. He needs an indoor home so that he can live out his life protected, safe, and loved. He is anxious to find his new Furever home!
Ranson, male, age 4
Boots, female, age 2
Angel, female, age 6
Angel is looking for a new home because unfortunately her owner passed away. A family member wanted to keep her; however, the 2 cats she already has refuse to accept Angel into the family and are bullying her. Angel is a very sweet girl. She has so much personality; she makes some of the funniest noises! She is such a goof ball. She loves to play, be brushed, get belly rubs; really, she just loves affection. She has been through a lot, but TLC, consistency and quality food have helped her transition to her current foster home. We are eager to get Angel settled into her new and loving family!
Baby Jane, female, age 5
To see even more dogs and cats available for adoption, or to learn more about how you can adopt a pet today, visit the Forsyth Humane Society’s website here.