Pet Overpopulation
Pet overpopulation is an ongoing crisis and is a serious issue in every community. Each year thousands of animals must be euthanized and put to sleep because decent homes are not found for them. Abandoned dogs and cats are free to roam the streets where they must struggle to survive on their own. The number is approximately; 8 million unwanted animals taken into shelters all across the country. Sadly, more than half of them eventually become euthanized. Shelter euthanasia is the number one cause of death of cats and dogs in the states. (PAWS Chicago). Further actions and more laws should be enforced in order to fix the overpopulation of domestic animals. The causes of overpopulation are due to overbreeding, choosing not to adopt, people disposing of their pets, and irresponsible pet owners who choose not to neuter.
In an article in the DVM Newsmagazine, Dr. Jeanette O’Quin, the president of the Association of Shelter Veterinarians states that overpopulation threatens the lives of companions animals more than any infectious disease and results from a combination of too many pets for the number of suitable homes… (DVM Veterinary). Statistics show that 60% of dogs and 70% of cats entering animal shelters never make it out alive (PAWS Chicago). A solution is possible and starts with each of us taking a step and getting our pets fixed. Over the years, public awareness has been increased about the need to spray and neuter, but many pet owners still choose not to do so.
As people intentionally breed their pets either for fun or for profit gain, others do not spray or neuter out of ignorance and choosing to believe that their animals won’t breed accidentally. The urge to breed is very powerful. Pets can, and will overcome extreme obstacles to get to their potential mate. Males and females will run out the door, chew through their leashes or even jump through fences. Spraying and neutering pets is a conscious choice and the right thing to do. Puppies and kittens can
In an article in the DVM Newsmagazine, Dr. Jeanette O’Quin, the president of the Association of Shelter Veterinarians states that overpopulation threatens the lives of companions animals more than any infectious disease and results from a combination of too many pets for the number of suitable homes… (DVM Veterinary). Statistics show that 60% of dogs and 70% of cats entering animal shelters never make it out alive (PAWS Chicago). A solution is possible and starts with each of us taking a step and getting our pets fixed. Over the years, public awareness has been increased about the need to spray and neuter, but many pet owners still choose not to do so.
As people intentionally breed their pets either for fun or for profit gain, others do not spray or neuter out of ignorance and choosing to believe that their animals won’t breed accidentally. The urge to breed is very powerful. Pets can, and will overcome extreme obstacles to get to their potential mate. Males and females will run out the door, chew through their leashes or even jump through fences. Spraying and neutering pets is a conscious choice and the right thing to do. Puppies and kittens can