Guest Commentary | Adoption a compassionate choice this holiday season
Cape Coral Animal Shelter Executive Director Liz McCauley. PROVIDED
Countless animals are waiting for someone to open their hearts and homes this holiday season. Puppies wag their tails, kittens purr softly, and each one dreams of a warm home and a family to love. Adopting not only saves a life, but it also helps stop the cycle of cruelty that fuels the puppy mill-pet store pipeline.
While online ads and pet stores can seem tempting, the safest, most compassionate choice is adoption from a local animal shelter or rescue — or from a responsible ethical breeder who raises animals with care and allows you to visit in person where the animals are raised. Animal shelters are full of healthy, loving animals ready to become part of a family, each with their own personality and story.
A new pet can bring laughter, comfort, and unconditional love into your home. This season, let your decision be guided by kindness and compassion. Give a home to an animal who truly needs it — and you’ll discover a gift that lasts far beyond the holidays.
Happy Holidays.
Liz McCauley is the executive director of the Cape Coral Animal Shelter.