Original Article: https://blog.theanimalrescuesite.greatergood.com/survey-dog-rowan-love/

When my fiancée and I stopped by the shelter to pick up our first pup together, we waited anxiously in the lobby while our dog was brought to see us.

We were wary about finding a good fit, but all of those concerns melted away the second we saw our dog and held him. Turns out, we aren’t alone.

82% of Americans describe the moment they chose their dog as “love at first sight,” according to a new poll.

The poll of 400 adults, commissioned by luxury dog grooming product company Rowan, had a few other surprising finds.

For example, 36% of Americans consider their dog to be their closest friend. Given the shrinking social circles of Americans from all walks of life, that makes sense — perhaps more surprising is that one in four pet owners declared that they were willing to give up their life to save their dog if the need arose.

“Many of us adore our dogs, but these ‘love at first sniff’ confessions were a surprise even to us,” explained Sally Clarke, creative director and co-founder of Rowan, in a statement.

It makes perfect sense when you realize that for many pet owners, especially those looking to adopt, the moment that you first see your dog is the moment that you realize how much they need you, and how much you need them.

The study underscores the intensity and the immediacy of the bond between dogs and their family, and gives a little perspective on just how much we value our canine companions.

Source: The Animal Rescue Site Blog