From Discarded Couches to Disposable Dogs: The Value of Second Chances

Rocky Kanaka |

May 23, 2023

I recently stumbled upon a TikTok video where a woman discovered a discarded couch on the curb. Little did she know, it was actually a high-end designer piece! She eagerly took it home, investing loads of money and countless hours to restore it to its former glory.

It made me think about all of the dogs in shelters. Perfectly good dogs, even designer dogs, that just need a good home and some TLC. Why is it that people will spend thousands to rehab a designer couch but not do that for a designer dog (or any dog) and save a life at the same time?

From Discarded Couches to Designer Dogs: The Value of Second Chances

My Favorite Breed Is Rescue!

Of course my favorite breed is always going to be RESCUE. The satisfaction of providing a second chance to a pup in need is beyond rewarding. However, I understand that some people may have specific preferences when it comes to breed—maybe it’s about temperament, appearance, activity level, or even allergies. After all, it would be a shame if there were no more Boxers, Golden Retrievers, or Poodles in the world. So, while I adore rescues, I also appreciate purebred dogs.

It All Changed During The Pandemic

You might recall that during the pandemic, many well-intentioned people, stuck at home, decided to welcome a new puppy into their lives. But as life gradually returned to normal, they realized they didn’t have enough time for a dog. Consequently, shelters are now experiencing an influx of dogs once again.

Purebreds Represent 25% Of Dogs In Shelters

Interestingly, a study from 2015 revealed that only 5% of dogs in shelters were purebred. Fast forward to 2023, and that statistic has changed. As a shelter volunteer and pet rescue advocate who travels around the country visiting shelters and rescues, I can tell you firsthand that between 20-30% of dogs in shelters today are purebred. You’ll find an abundance of Huskies, German Shepherds, Frenchies, Pugs, English Bulldogs, Pocket Bullies, and even designer breeds like Goldendoodles.

Believe me, it’s absolutely possible to find your dream dog at a shelter. In fact, I have two purebred dogs of my own who were once shelter dogs! While these dogs are often sold for thousands of dollars, I consider them to be priceless. However, both of them had very bleak beginnings, and it’s likely they wouldn’t have made it past their first birthday if I hadn’t rescued them.

Here’s a list of purebred dogs I have had over the years all of whom came from shelters:

Flip – Boxer

Kobe- Cane Corso

Winston – American Bulldog

Tulip – Bulldog

Hershel – German Shepherd

Wade – French Bulldog

Jalapeño – Golden Retriever

Willy – Labrador Retriever

Snoop – Miniature Pinscher

Here’s the takeaway:

You don’t have to choose between rescuing a dog or getting a purebred. You can have the best of both worlds! With a little bit of research, you can easily find the dog of your dreams and make a lifesaving difference. So, why not embark on this incredible journey and give a deserving dog a forever home? Trust me, the love and joy they bring into your life is immeasurable.