If you’re thinking of adding a new pet to the family, it may be tempting to approach a breeder or pet store. But whatever animal you have your heart set on, there are myriad reasons to adopt, not shop. You may find your creature companion at your local shelter, where plenty of animals are already truly in need of your love. Here are ten of the most compelling reasons to open your home, and your heart, to a shelter animal. 1. You will save a life Animal shelters in the United States are full to bursting. According to the ASPCA, approximately 1.5 million shelter animals are euthanized every year, simply because there are too many stray, relinquished, or abandoned animals, and too few people consider adoption. 2. In fact, you’ll save many lives By adopting, you will not only be giving that animal a second chance; you’re opening a space at …