Over 4 million animals are euthanized each year simply because too few people adopt from shelters or rescue groups.

Jill Rappaport, a Today Show contributor, is a huge dog lover. She is the owner of four dogs, all rescues, two from the city pound. So that is why she did a special segment called “From Bow to Wow.”

For the segment, she went to one of the busiest kill shelters in the country and picked four dogs to get groomed, get medical attention, and go on the Today Show to help them find a home. She picked four dogs from 9 months to 9 years. Also selected two older, bigger dogs because those are the hardest to get adopted.

So if you are thinking about getting a pet, adopt. But remember that adopting a dog is a huge responsibility so talk with your family to be sure you all have the same goals and expectations regarding adoption. If you already have one dog, be sure you factor that into the equation. Also be sure you’re ready from a budgetary stand-point as well.

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