According to the American Kennel Club, the third most popular pet in the US is the Golden Retriever. Because they’re very obedient, loveable, playful, loyal, and have a chill temperament—making them great around kids—it’s evident Golden Retrievers are an in-demand breed.
You can purchase a Golden Retriever from a licensed, respectable breeder or adopt one from a shelter or rescue, which is encouraged strongly by dog owners worldwide. “Adopt Don’t Shop” resonates with pet-owners who did NOT get their pup from a breeder because adopting a shelter or rescue dog is a special moment for so many.
Of course, dogs from breeders need homes as well, and some breeders are legitimate and safe. However, there’s a big push for pet adoption in particular for many reasons. For starters, you are giving a homeless dog a loving place to live, and a second chance at life. Here’s three other reasons why you should adopt a Golden Retriever:
You clear up shelters. Sadly, many animal shelters are overcrowded. By adopting a dog, you make space for another animal in need to take its place at the shelter; giving THAT dog a chance to be adopted into a wonderful home, with a huggable family.
The loyalty. It may sound crazy, but there’s a good chance you pup innately knows you adopted them; you chose them and gave them a good home away from the streets and a cage. Therefore, they’ll be so loyal and appreciative towards you. Because some shelter and rescue dogs were abused (big sad face) some ‘hoomans’ worry about connecting with a rescued dog. As the ASPCA nicely explains: shelter dogs have so much love to give—and they won’t ever stop giving it to you once you let them into your heart!
They’ll help you in return. We, as human individuals, all have occasional feelings of loneliness and confusion; life isn’t easy. Rescuing a dog and making it feel like it’s loved and supported does wonders for YOUR confidence as well as there’s. Plus, because Golden Retrievers tend to like going on gentle walks and are easy to “potty” train outside, getting some exercise alongside one is good for your own mental and physical health. There’s nothing like a good walk with a great dog on a sunny day. It’s a mood booster for sure, and when people gush over your furry friend at the park, it helps with your socialization skills as well.
If you’d like to rescue a Golden Retriever, here are some places to check out:
Yankee Golden Retriever Rescue: This Massachusetts-based non-profit has rescued dogs locally and from other nations, including Turkey and Ukraine. You can become a member, financially support a kennel, and more, with this organization dedicated to helping homeless Goldens.
As Good As Gold: Based in Illinois, this a membership-based, volunteer-supported 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to encourage others to rescue, care and adopt Golden Retrievers and golden mixes who are in need. They also teach Golden Retriever guardians and the community about the importance of spaying/neutering, positive training methods, diet, exercise, and more.
Delaware Valley Golden Retriever Rescue: This organization provides support for those who surrender their Goldens and finds them new, loving homes. The active members have successfully placed thousands of Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Goldendoodles and Labradoodles into new homes throughout PA and beyond.
