Lexington Humane Society: Adopt, don't shop

Adopting an animal from a shelter, rescue group or other organization can both save a life and provide a home for a furry friend in need.

Opposed to buying from a breeder, adopting has plenty of benefits that make it a more ethical and responsible choice for aspiring pet owners.

Each year, millions of animals end up in shelters, either when their owners cannot take care of them or when unethical breeding practices are occurring from animals who have not been spayed or neutered.

Shelters are often crowded, and many animals remain unadopted for long periods of time, which can lead to numerous health and behavioral issues.

Shelters aside, breeders often breed animals for profit, overlooking possible genetic health problems, such as hip dysplasia or heart disease, that could be prevented.

By adopting a pet from a shelter, issues such as overcrowding, health issues due to breeding or even animal euthanasia can be prevented.

The Lexington Humane Society (LHS), like many other rescue facilities, provides a loving, safe environment for animals who have been neglected or discarded by their owners or found on the streets.

Located on Old Frankfort Pike, LHS features a large property with fenced-in yards, a veterinary clinic and a full adoption facility.

They house cats, dogs and certain livestock on their grounds,

They provide vaccinations and other necessary health procedures to ensure that the animal is at their best performance and condition, while simultaneously socializing them to do well in their forever home.

On top of ensuring that every animal that comes into their care is at their best, animals from LHS have an extremely high adoption rate. The feline room is nearly always empty, and even their older animals are adopted quickly.

They even ensure that animals with physical disabilities or illnesses find loving homes. Cats with feline HIV, respiratory illnesses or even missing limbs are adopted just as quickly as those without.

If looking to support LHS or any local humane society, donations of food, toys, beds, blankets or litter are always welcome in addition to plenty of volunteer opportunities. Even spreading awareness of the importance of adoption is a fantastic way of showing your support.