One Dog Can Change Your Whole Life

Anant Singh | Sep 02, 2025, 13:30 IST
Dog waiting for adoption
( Image credit : Freepik )

They say a dog is a man’s best friend - but there are thousands of dogs waiting in shelters, for whom that friendship is still a dream. Animals find themselves in shelters each year due to no fault of their own. Issues like abandonment, getting lost or when owners can’t provide them anymore are a common sight in today’s world. Choosing adoptions means giving a second chance along with compassion, which creates a bond that money can never buy. Giving a second chance to the animals is a gift of a lifetime.

Making room for another one

Shelter dogs waiting for adoption
( Image credit : Freepik )

Shelters always will have finite resources and space. With the growing issues, when you adopt, you make room for another life that can be saved. Animals in shelters are in dire need of help and, by opening your doors, your home to them, you provide them with comfort and stability. Euthanasia is a growing problem in shelters.

What is Euthanasia?
Child’s last goodbye to a beloved dog
( Image credit : Freepik )

Euthanasia is caused due to overpopulation and lack of resources. It is the the practice of putting down animals who are not being taken to a home. Demand for adoption is less than the amount of animals who are in need, the moment where Euthanasia takes place.

By choosing to adopt one gives a home to an animal in need. It is a direct stop to Euthanasia.

Shelter don’t discriminate

Volunteers caring for rescued dogs at a shelter
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A shelter is home to every animal, regardless of size, shape, colour, age and breed. Shelters keep a full profile of the animal in front of the potential families to make their decisions easier.
Here is a list of some adoption agencies in India
  1. People For Animals (PFA)
  2. The Blue Cross Of India
  3. Compassion Unlimited Plus Action (CUPA)
  4. Voices Of Stray Dogs (VOSD)
Shelters like the above work day and night for animals in need. They provide them with the best they can, and you can provide for them too, by adopting a four-legged companion for life.

A guide for first timers

Young woman bonding with her first pet puppy in a cozy café
( Image credit : Freepik )

Adoption needs preparations and a proper mindset. It is not as easy as it sounds to the normal ear, lots of planning, big decisions, and a commitment for a lifetime are basics that one needs to be ready.

  • Know the commitment
Adopting a dog means care for a lifetime, feeding, vet visits, training and a bond built under no conditions. It’s a lot of effort which not every person is upto.

  • Picking the right companion
Taking a look at your lifestyle is a big part of choosing the right companion. Shelters can guide you for finding the right match. It’s not about looks, it’s about the energy, the temperament and most importantly size.

  • Preparing the perfect home
Dogs need a lot of preparations before bringing you can bring them into their new home. Food, leashes, bowls, a comfortable bed and most importantly a safe space.

  • Health checks
After bringing your companion home, make sure to decide on and visit a vet. A vet who is reliable, knowledgable and understands your dog. Keeping up with vaccinations and medication is important for a healthy life.

  • Patience and affection
Coming into a new home is not easy, your companion might need time to adjust and, get comfortable. Being patient with them is the top most priority for the owners, this is a commitment for life, it’s not just a small phase.

Adoption is the solution

The power of adoption
( Image credit : Freepik )

Adoption generates a positive shift in the world of animals. One decision of yours might influence others to make the same positive change. You give home to an animal who can’t tell you their feelings.

Take a stand against commercial breeding. Adopt don’t shop. Provide a home for someone in need instead of providing for a breeder. Setting a safer future for our animals is a need, not a want anymore. Stop at your local shelter and you might just find the right companion for yourself. By choosing adoption over shopping, we choose a future where no dog has to wait behind bars for a chance at love. It is said that a dog is a man’s best friend and, by adopting you make a best friend for life with unconditional love.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)




  1. Can I adopt a dog for free in India?Yes, many shelters and NGOs in India offer adoption without a fee. However, some may charge a small amount to cover vaccinations or sterilisation.
  2. Why do people refuse to adopt?Some believe shelter dogs are unhealthy, too old, or difficult to train. In reality, most adopted dogs are resilient, loving, and adapt beautifully with the right care.
  3. Does it take money to adopt?While adoption itself is often free or low-cost, caring for a dog involves ongoing expenses—food, vaccinations, vet visits, and grooming.
  4. Are adopted dogs as good as pedigreed ones?Absolutely. In fact, Indies (Indian native dogs) are hardy, intelligent, and loyal. Adopted dogs bond deeply and often thrive better in local climates than foreign breeds.
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