Pet of the Week
Every week of the year, I write an article on a pet that is up for adoption. The director of our local humane organization, a friend of mine, recently broke the sad news that pet surrenders are at an all-time high while donations and adoptions are declining.
It’s difficult to pinpoint the precise cause of the surge in unwanted pets, but experts in the field attribute it to a number of factors, including growing veterinary expenses, backyard designer pet breeding, financial difficulties, and the surge in pet adoptions during the COVID shutdowns, which has now come full circle.
Animal Adoption Statistics
Approximately 6.5 million animals enter shelters annually, according to the ASPCA. Out of those, only 2.1 million cats and 2 million dogs find homes. There is just so much room, particularly in animal control facilities, despite the hard efforts of our local humane societies and animal control divisions to place animals in homes or rescues. Heartbreaking decisions must occasionally be made due of the enormous amount of pets.
The Lucky Dogs (and Cats)
However, some fortunate pets are given another opportunity. Many people wait patiently for their forever family in foster homes, often for years.
I contacted neighborhood groups this holiday season and requested that their longest-term residents be included in my “12 Strays of Christmas.” When it seemed impossible, our effort has already produced amazing results, such as long-term shelter clients finding their permanent homes.
I Can’t Adopt – Can I Still Help?
It’s okay if you are unable to adopt! By posting this on your social network, you can still have an impact. Each share makes a difference. Fosters, money, and materials are also badly needed in humane societies. Donating is a great method to support homeless animals if you wish to help them but are unable to take one home.
Together, let’s provide these worthy dogs with the affection and attention they require.
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