Dogs have puppies year round but it seems there are more every Spring. We need to aggressively spread the message of spay/neuter!
We've had eight puppies come into the shelter in the last couple of days. Three of the eight belong to one litter. These three were found dumped, dehydrated and starving, on the side of a road. They wolfed down the food we gave them and then fell asleep, huddled together for security. I watched them sleeping in their kennel - pure innocence. They understand nothing of the cruel world they've been born into.
Even though dogs have puppies year round, it seems there is a puppy explosion every Spring. These puppies are unwanted yet they are no accident. Someone is responsible for their birth. It may be shocking to some to learn that for every person born in America, 15 puppies and 45 kittens are born. It's no wonder that shelters are full and overflowing with homeless pets. When shelters can no longer take them in, these babies must be killed.
Although we have no room for any more, the eight puppies at our shelter are safe, at least for now - we are no-kill - and they will be neutered so they cannot add to the overpopulation. Yet, with a potential 12 to 16 year lifespan, I wonder how many of them will live out that potential in a happy forever home. Statistics show that most dogs, even the ones who find homes, will end up homeless again at some time in their life. With so many pets available, some people look at them as disposable - easy come, easy go.
If your pet is not spayed/neutered and is out roaming, please consider that you're adding to this tragedy. We need to aggressively spread the message of spay/neuter! If you can't take in 15 dogs and 45 cats, please spay/neuter your pets!
