Homeless dog
In the United States, 2,000 to 3,500 cats and dogs are born each hour, compared to the 415 humans who are born each hour. With such high birthrates, it's no surprise that the amount of homeless animals is staggeringly high. However, there are steps that can be taken to help reduce homelessness among animals.
The Animals
Around the country, over 15 million pets are delivered into the hands of animal shelters each year. Of these 15 million, roughly 25 to 30 percent are adopted or reclaimed by owners or put into new homes. The remainder of these pets, some 11 million, must be put to death because no one can find them a home. An unknown number of animals are lost or abandoned and never return to their homes.
Causes
The biology of dogs and cats plays a significant role in the high rate of births. Both cats and dogs are capable of rapid reproduction but their domestication has removed them from nature, allowing for the higher survival rate of litters. Commercial breeding has contributed as well; the idea of genetically superior canines or felines causes over-breeding and increases the chances of neglect. Many owners do not have their pet spayed or neutered, contributing to the need to find homes for additional animals. Between these issues and lost or abandoned animals, it's easy to see how many animals become homeless, are put into shelters or are euthanized.
Spay or Neuter
There are many benefits to having a pet spayed or neutered. Not only will the pet cease to have its periods of "heat" but it will also not produce unwanted offspring. A pet's natural drive to roam will decrease as well. For the most part, aggression levels towards people and other animals decrease. It is also believed that spaying or neutering pets can help prevent certain health disorders, such as prostate diseases and sex hormone-related diseases.
Adoption
Adopting a shelter or homeless cat or dog can solve many problems at once. By adopting, you won't be contributing to animal overpopulation or homelessness. If you feel uncomfortable with training a dog, or are worried you won't be able to, adoption can solve that difficulty by providing you with a well-trained house pet. Considering the amount of animals expected each year to be put up for adoption, there should be no worries about selection. Many animal adoption agencies also offer ownership support services to help with the new adjustment.
Benefits
Adoption will help in the reduction of homeless pets. Fewer animals will have to be euthanized or be forced to sit in a shelter for the remainder of their lives. Spaying and neutering pets breaks the cycle of bringing more animals into the world than can be cared for.
Help
If you already own a own pet, or don't feel quite ready to adopt, you can help in different ways. You could volunteer at your local humane society or some other similar organization. You can also donate money to local animal organizations. If at any time you feel unsure help, contact your local humane society or a veterinarian and ask in what ways you can help solve this problem.
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