About 3-4 million dogs and cats get put to sleep each year in animal shelters because of pet over-population. Here are some ways YOU can help.
1. SPAY OR NEUTER YOUR PET. The single most important thing you can do now to save lives is to spay or neuter your pet. This prevents any offspring that will end up being killed in shelters.
2. ADOPT FROM YOUR LOCAL SHELTER OR A REPUTABLE RESCUE GROUP. Don’t adopt from backyard breeders or from newspaper or internet ads. Many of these are irresponsible breeders contributing to the pet-overpopulation problem.
3. VOLUNTEER WITH YOUR LOCAL SHELTER OR RESCUE GROUP. Spending time with animals will make them more friendly and thus more likely to be adopted.
4. BECOME A FOSTER PARENT FOR A PET. By taking care of an animal in your home until it is adopted into a “forever home,” you create more room in the shelter. Fostering also lets you experience many different breeds and temperaments so you can find the type that is right for you. Note that while fostering is very rewarding, it can be emotionally difficult to let the animal go once they are adopted. Be sure you are prepared for this, before you become a foster.
5. BE COMMITTED TO YOUR PET FOR LIFE. Pick an animal that suits your lifestyle. If you aren’t a high-energy person, don’t get a high-energy dog. Don’t pick a dog or cat because of looks or cuteness. Cuteness fades over time but your dog or cat will expect you to take care of them for life. Just like you wouldn’t give away a brother or sister, you should think of your pet as part of the family for its life.
6. PREPARE A DISASTER SUPPLY KIT FOR YOUR PETS Plan ahead. Disaster can strike at any time. You need to have a pet disaster supply kit and evacuation plan ready beforehand. The PETS Act of 2006 requires state and local emergency preparedness agencies to include household pets and service animals in all evacuation plans. Don’t leave pets behind to fend for themselves and don’t stay in harm’s way by not evacuating with your pets.
The Humane Society of the United States provides a list of what a disaster supply kit should include for dogs or cats.
For more information, visit your local animal shelter or the website for the Humane Society of the United States.