Meet Nova, Marla, Paul and Rosie.
Michigan animal shelters help more than just cats and dogs. Rats, guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils, and other small animals need homes, too. If you don’t support buying puppies from a pet store because you’re concerned about puppy mills, you should reconsider buying small companion animals as well.
Rodents, ferrets, lizards, fish, and birds, who are sold in pet stores usually come from a commercial breeding facility. They are often bought on impulse and do not receive veterinary care or adequate space in which to live.
If you are interested in adding a small animal to your family, adoption from a shelter or rescue is the best option! Nova, Marla, Paul and Rosie were all rescued from homes who could no longer adequately care for them. They lived the rest of their lives in a home where they had space, companionship, and all the healthy food they could eat. They also got a chance to pose for photos!