Pet Adoption Season: Meet Your New Best Friend
Pet Adoption Season: Meet Your New Best Friend
By Junior Contreras-Barragan
One morning, I woke up wondering what I could do for my community. As a student at Mount Tahoma High School, I wanted to make a difference. My mind went straight to animal shelters — places filled with loving pets waiting for a second chance. That’s how my journey began.
I visited Horn Creek Rescue and also highlighted the Tacoma Humane Society to learn more about pet adoption and how students like us can help. What I found was eye-opening. Diana, a volunteer at Horn Creek Rescue, shared something that stuck with me: “When you adopt, you're saving an animal that doesn’t go into the system that can die from shelters being too full.” That hit hard. Every adoption is a life saved.
Horn Creek Rescue focuses on cats, many of which come from high-kill shelters in Texas. These animals are brought to Washington in hopes of finding a forever home. Diana also pointed out that buying from breeders often means spending a lot of money on pets that aren’t even spayed or neutered. Adoption, on the other hand, is more affordable and helps reduce overpopulation.
The Tacoma Humane Society has been around for over a hundred years, working to protect and improve the lives of animals across Pierce County. They care for thousands of pets each year — dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, and even reptiles. Their team provides food, shelter, medical care, and love. They also offer adoption counseling, low-cost vaccinations, and volunteer opportunities.
To wrap up my story, I showcased photos of adopted pets from some of our Mount Tahoma teachers. These images showed how rescue animals have become part of our school community — bringing joy, comfort, and connection to the people who care for them. Even without words, these pets tell powerful stories of second chances and love.
Adopting a pet is more than just getting a new furry friend. It’s an act of compassion, empathy, and hope. It’s about giving animals a second chance and making our community stronger. If you’re thinking about adding a pet to your family, check out local shelters. You might just meet your new best friend — and change a life in the process.
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