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Adopt, don't shop with Hearts of Hope Dog Rescue

Adopting from a shelter or rescue could be saving the lives of more than one animal.

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- You have probably heard the phrase "adopt, don't shop" somewhere. It's an expression many people use when they are talking about picking out a new furry family member. If you are considering adding a dog or a cat to your family, there are a number of places you can go to find one.

In West Michigan there are a number of shelters and rescues that can help you find the perfect addition to your home. Hearts of Hope Dog Rescue is a non-profit in Grand Rapids that seeks to find homes for animals in West Michigan. They are constantly working to help as many dogs and cats as possible, fostering them before finding them a permanent home. You can help them out by donating your time, some funds, or by adopting someone and giving them love.

You can check out the adoptable animals at Hearts of Hope here. There is an adoption fee that is considered a charitable donation to the rescue. That ranges from $150 to $350. Puppies are generally on the higher end of the scale. The fees help cover vet care, food, supplies, and other expenses. You can get started in the adoption process by completing an adoption application.

So, why adopt rather than buy from a breeder? The dogs that aren't adopted from shelters and rescues around the country are often stuck, and in many cases there are situations where overpopulation causes some of the animals to be put down. Adopting from a shelter or rescue could be saving the lives of more than one animal.

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