Many dog owners, including myself, view their furry friend as a member of the family. They are loved an incomprehensible amount, and they mean the world to their people. 

Every dog is special, regardless of their background, but there is something especially beautiful about rescue dogs. There are a multitude of reasons why these animals are so amazing, but the best is knowing that by adopting them, you are saving a life. 

My rescue dog, Milo, was abandoned by his former owners in Louisiana. When evicted from their house, they left Milo, as well as their other dog, behind. 

When Milo was found by Animal Control, he was covered in fleas and obviously malnourished. From there, he was brought to a shelter, treated for fleas, fed, neutered and provided with proper medical care. Finally, after three months, he was brought home. 

Now, Milo is safe, and will never be abandoned again. Regardless of the fact that I have only had him for a few weeks, he has completely stolen my heart. He is the sweetest, most loving little guy with a tragic past, but now a bright future. Sadly, not all dogs are so fortunate.

There are millions of dogs in shelters waiting to be adopted, often more than the shelters can support. Because of this, the number of euthanizations is astonishing and depressing. There are far more dogs than people wanting to adopt them.

By adopting a rescue dog instead of a puppy from a breeder, you can completely transform not only the life of your dog, but your own, as well. I know it is cliche, but – in the long run – you may not be sure who rescued whom. Perhaps this saying is popular because it is also true.