In a perfect world, there would be no need for animal rescue. Individuals and families would look carefully at their lifestyles, research breeds, choose pets that would fit in well, and those pets would live out their lives as loved family members. There would be no puppy mills churning out litter after litter after litter - without regard for the health of the animals being bred and their offspring. There would be no pet stores selling unhealthy, temperamentally unsound, or otherwise poorly bred pets merely to make money. All breedings would be carefully planned, and all breeders would rigorously screen prospective owners to make sure their puppies or kittens were going to the most suitable homes.

Of course, the world isn't perfect. There are puppy mills and pet stores and irresponsible breeders, and there are families and individuals who are unable to keep a pet for its entire life. Sometimes circumstances beyond the owner's control require giving up a beloved pet. And there are occasions when an animal needs to be removed from an abusive environment. Other times, however, the reasons are far more trivial.

Whatever the reason, in the United States millions of unwanted dogs and cats are euthanized annually (the Humane Society of the United States estimates this figure to be between 4 and 6 million--other sources suggest it could be much higher). Many of them are absolutely wonderful animals whose only "crime" is that there isn't enough room in local shelters to keep them until they can be adopted. It's on behalf of these creatures that rescue groups exist. Rescue organizations are made up of caring individuals who try to save these pets from death and give them another chance--but there are so many homeless animals and so few places for them.

If you are thinking of acquiring a pet, please first evaluate your lifestyle and the characteristics of the breeds you are interested in (breed FAQs for many dog breeds are available online, and FAQs also exist for cats) and do consider a rescued animal! Rescue groups exist all over the country for both cats and dogs, and they'll work with you to find a pet that will fit into your family. It may take time to find the perfect pet, and they'll surely ask as many questions of you as you ask of them, but their goal is to ensure that the dog they place with you finds a permanent and loving home.