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Adoption
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Animal shelters often offer cats for adoption, too. Adopting a pet involves finding a pet at an animal shelter or through a rescue group, according to the Humane Society of the United States. These animals have either been abandoned by their owners or given voluntarily to the shelter or rescue group.
Pet Stores
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Pet stores sell puppies. Most dogs in pet stores come from puppy mills, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). Most cats in pet stores also come from commercial breeders, according to the group Specialty Purebred Cat Rescue.
Health Problems
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Ask about a pet's health history before buying or adopting. The ASPCA cites many possible health problems with dogs bred in puppy mills, including genetic disorders. Cats also have more health problems when bred by a commercial breeder and often do not get the opportunity to socialize properly. Although pets up for adoption can have health problems as well, according to the Humane Society, reputable shelters and rescue groups try to find out as much as they can about each animal's background before making them available for adoption.
Cost
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Adopting a pet from a shelter or rescue group costs much less than buying one from a pet store. Adopted pets are also more likely to be vaccinated, spayed or neutered, according to the Humane Society.
Screening
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Most pet stores do not screen potential owners before selling a pet. Employees at good-quality animal shelters will do their best to match the right animal with the right owner, taking into consideration the animal's temperament, breed, age and so on, according to the Humane Society.
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Adoption Vs. Pet Stores
Choosing a pet is a major decision no matter where the animal comes from. Potential owners face risks whether they decide to adopt a pet or buy one from a pet store.