A DJ in PJs: Greg James Gives Adoption a Shout-Out in New PETA Campaign
Radio presenter Greg James squeezes into a small bed with his big rescued dog, Barney, for a new PETA ad that proclaims, “Rescues Are My Cup of Tea. Adopt, Don’t Shop!”
The presenter describes his and Barney’s special bond:
“He’s an enormous goof, and that’s why he and I get on so well. He’s helped me out so much this year, and I’d always recommend adopting a dog.”
Every year, hundreds of thousands of dogs and cats in this country end up in animal shelters, and many of them have to be euthanised simply because there aren’t enough good homes for them.
“We adopted Barney in 2019, and he’s changed our lives,” says James. “He was anxious and panicky when we met him, but the satisfaction you get from helping animals trust and love a human again is life-affirming.”
The presenter is part of a growing list of celebrities – including Sia, Tove Lo, Sir Paul McCartney, and P!nk – who’ve joined forces with PETA or our affiliates to promote compassion and respect for all animals.
Never Buy Animals From Breeders
When you buy a puppy or kitten from a breeder or pet shop, you’re buying into cruelty. Many breeders force female dogs and cats to churn out litter after litter for profit with little regard for their welfare.
Dogs and cats at puppy and kitten mills aren’t well-loved family companions – treated like breeding machines, they suffer in squalid conditions, often with untreated health issues, until they’re no longer able to produce babies, at which point they’re abandoned, sold, or killed.
Even breeders who don’t treat animals like machines and animal guardians who let their dogs or cats have “just one litter”, however well-intentioned they may be, contribute to the severe dog and cat overpopulation crisis. Every newborn puppy or kitten purchased from a breeder leaves one fewer home for a dog or cat who is desperately waiting in a shelter or roaming the streets.
Puppies and kittens from breeders also commonly have myriad health issues and genetic defects, leading to high veterinary bills for their families.
Every time someone buys a puppy or a kitten, an animal in a shelter loses their chance at finding a home, fuelling the homeless-animal crisis. Not only do rescued dogs and cats make terrific companions, mixed-breed animals are also likely to be healthier and live longer than their “pedigree” counterparts. So remember: always adopt – never shop!
Ready to Adopt or Foster?
Of course, adding an animal companion to the family is an important decision that requires making a lifetime commitment to caring for and spending time with an animal.
Here’s what you need to know if you think you’re ready to look after an animal companion:
