Looking for a family pet? There are practical reasons to adopt.

“There are a lot of good reasons to adopt a shelter pet,” said Sherri Bradley, facility director. “I think the top one is that all animals deserve a loving home and a second chance.”

If that’s not enough, here are seven more:

• Adoption helps break the cycle of overpopulation.

• Adult pets, past the puppy or kitten phase, means less hassle.

•A shelter offers a variety of breeds and the greatest mutts you’ll ever find.

• The pet you adopted received great care with vaccinations as they entered the shelter.

• The adoption fee is less than the cost of purebred puppies or kittens.

• Animal shelters are not-for-profit.

• Your support encourages others to adopt.

“It’s very important for people to adopt an animal that suits you,” said Bradley. “The animal needs to match your personality and lifestyle. How much time you have to donate toward its care should be considered. Once you figure out what you need, we can help you select the right pet.”

Adoption also supports the efforts of shelter employees and volunteers such as the newest full-time employee at Warren County Animal Control and Adoption Center, Ashley Bouldin.

“We love the animals. If we didn’t, we wouldn’t be here,” said Bradley. “However, it can be a tough, thankless job. When people come in to adopt, we feel like people are supporting us and that our tireless efforts aren’t going unnoticed.”

Warren County Animal Control and Adoption Center is located at 169 Paws Trail. For more information, call 507-3647.