Every puppy or dog purchased from a pet store, classified ad or over the Internet means one more adorable dog from a shelter that will never find a home. Five out of ten dogs in shelters are killed simply because there is no one to adopt them.

Don't be fooled into thinking that animal shelters and rescues are filled with dog that were discarded because they're "bad". Shelter pets for adoption are wonderful companions who became the victims of family tragedy, unlucky circumstances or irresponsible owners.

Shelters and rescues have a great selection of adult dogs, puppies, and even purebreds for adoption. In fact, on average, purebreds account for about 25 to 30 percent of a shelter’s dog population.

Another advantage to adopting a dog from a shelter or rescue are the fees. They are usually much less than the purchase price from a pet store or breeder. Plus your dog is more likely to be vaccinated, dewormed, and spayed or neutered.

Ask anybody who has adopted a dog, and they'll swear their bond with their rescue is as deep as they come. When you open your heart and your home to a dog who needs help, they really do show their appreciation for the rest of their life!

Petfinder is a searchable database of dogs that need homes. With more than 13,000 animal shelters and adoption organizations across the U.S., Canada and Mexico.

Adopt-a-Pet is a non-profit pet adoption charity that helps shelters, humane societies, SPCAs, and pet rescue groups advertise their homeless pets to adopters for free.