A Pawsitive Change: The Impact of Adopting a Mixed Breed Pet

National Mutt Day passed last weekend and the country honored the day in simple ways with treats for furry pals, extra playtime, and visiting shelters to spread a little love. Officially, this day of observance falls twice a year, on July 24th and December 2nd, but the team at GrantWatch feels we can celebrate our furry friends all year long. We want to talk about mixed breeds or mutts because there have been growing calls from shelters about capacity issues. Right now, shelters are warning about this issue all over the country. In New York, Florida, and major population centers, this is an increasing problem.

That’s why we thought we’d share some of the benefits of owning a mixed breed pet with our amazing subscribers. In addition, we have a list of facts you may not know about mutts living in shelters and another that outlines why adopting from a shelter is the right decision. And finally, we want to offer a list of grants to help everyone’s favorite furry friends. Remember this holiday season, adopt, don’t shop!

Are There Benefits to Owning a Mixed Breed Pet?

Adopting a mixed breed pet comes with so many benefits! These unique companions, often referred to as mutts, embody a blend of breeds. This, in turn, results in a diverse genetic makeup that can contribute to their overall health and resilience.

Mixed breed dogs also tend to have fewer hereditary health issues related to genetic predispositions. They don’t suffer as often with things like hip dysplasia, asthma, deafness, neurotic tendencies, and other behaviors related to temperament. It’s a fact, mixed breed canines are a hardy lot. Oh yes, there are definite perks to having a mutt as a companion.

One last consideration, is that mutts are really intelligent. Moreover, mixed breeds often have an adaptable nature, making them well-suited for most living environments. If you choose to adopt a mixed breed dog, you not only open your heart to a one-of-a-kind companion but also ensure your family gains a true and loyal friend who will love you unconditionally.

Key Facts About Mutts in Shelters

• Every year, approximately 6.3 million animals make their way to shelters. The ASPCA estimates that 53% of dogs in shelters are mixed breeds.
• Some potential adopters overlook mutts because they have an idea of what their ideal dog should look like. However, mutts are just as loving and loyal as purebred dogs.
• According to the Humane Society, approximately 2 million families adopt their canine companions from shelters.
• Each dog who enters a shelter undergoes health and behavior evaluations.
• Some dogs wait years for adoption.

Why Is Adopting From a Shelter Better?

• Adopting a friendly fur-face from a shelter is a great way to save a life–yours! It’s well known that owning a pet supports your mental and emotional health.
• When you adopt a mutt from a shelter, you are giving a homeless dog a loving home and a second chance at life.
• Mutts are just as loving and loyal as purebred dogs. In fact, many people believe that mutts have better temperaments and higher intelligence than some purebred canines.
• Many dogs never find their forever home. According to the Mosby Foundation, a nonprofit that helps abused animals, only 1 in 10 dogs every find a permanent home. Make yours one!
• You’re supporting a good cause when you adopt from a shelter. Keep up the good fight against puppy mills.

Grants to Help Pets and Pet Owners

1. To start, there are grants to help nonprofit shelters to accommodate the pets of victims of domestic abuse. Funding is for capital improvements specifically related to the maintenance and housing of pets.
2. And there is funding for nonprofits to provide pet care assistance to community members undergoing a crisis. The program ensures that pets are cared for while owners recover from serious illness and loss.
3. There are grants available to nonprofits and agencies to provide health care equipment to animal care providers.
4. And there are grants available to nonprofits to benefit and protect animals during emergencies and natural disasters. Funding covers food, veterinary care, transportation, medical supplies, shelter, or any other costs to assist in the safety and well-being of dogs.
5. Finally, there are also grants available to individuals to support veterinary expenses for companion animals needing critical care. Funding facilitates urgent treatment for illnesses and injuries.

Additional grants for Pets

1. First, there are grants available to Animal Shelters for programs to improve the quality of life for cats and dogs.
2. Next, there is funding for New York nonprofit animal welfare organizations and local government animal shelters and animal control in eligible regions to provide affordable spay/neuter services.
3. Also, grants to researchers from nonprofit organizations or academic institutions for studies on the health benefits of pet companionship. Research focus areas include healthy aging, mental health and physical wellness, and child health and development.
4. In addition, an opportunity for nonprofit organizations, including animal shelters and animal fostering organizations, to participate in a challenge to make the animal adoption spaces more welcoming to all.
5. And in conclusion, grants of up to $2,500 to Iowa nonprofit organizations and government agencies for projects and programs to improve the well-being of animals. 

GrantNews Notes:

With close to 8,000 grants currently available, GrantWatch.com is the leading grant listing directory. Upgrade to a MemberPlus+ subscription to view the full grant details, including eligibility criteria and application information. For more information, you can also visit the GrantWatch FAQ page. To see the great value of all 20 of the top GrantWatch features, click here.

Please Note: There is no guarantee by GrantWatch nor the author that grants will be awarded as a result of this information.