As an animal lover, I am sure you know the immense happiness that having a companion animal in your life can bring you and the people around you.
My two furry babies, Chewy and Chiquita, are rescue animals, so I know firsthand that it can bring the joy of adopting an orphan pet. I can’t imagine my life without them, they are the ones that cheer me up when I’ve had a bad day and make me laugh when I need it most.
My pets help me see the fun in life even if what I’m doing isn’t particularly exciting … like when I take my dog for a walk around the neighborhood.
As we walk, Chewy constantly forces me to stop … he likes to examine all the other shrubs and trees and make sure to add his mark even after it has dried!
Sometimes I want him to rush so I can come home to work on another task or project, but the fact that he keeps me waiting for him gives me time to finally relax and indulge, enjoy, and examine my surroundings. It taught me to notice the beauty of nature around me, so now I occasionally take my camera to take pictures of the interesting things we see on our walks that I would otherwise ignore.
The facts about homeless animals in the US
The Humane Society of the United States estimates that animal shelters across the country admit between 6 and 8 million dogs and cats a year, and about half of them are unlucky enough to be euthanized. Although the number of pets euthanized in this country has dropped considerably compared to previous years, 4 million animals euthanized per year equates to roughly eight animals to sleep per minute!
Two key factors causing homelessness for animals
The number one reason there are so many orphaned animals in America is that adoption rates are morbidly low. However, many people are unaware that 1 in 4 shelter dogs waiting to be adopted are actually purebred.
Another important factor is that there are still many animals that are not being spayed or neutered. Did you know that of all the animals that our shelters rescue each year, only 10% are spayed or neutered? It’s no wonder the population at our animal shelter continues to be so high.
Awareness about the adoption of animals
Fortunately, there are many organizations that help raise awareness about the importance of adopting animals and spaying / neutering your pet.
Since 2008, every third Saturday in August has been known as International Homeless Animals Day.
Groups from around the world come together each year for candlelight vigils, adoption marathons for shelter rescues, and microchip clinics.
If you and your animal-loving family and friends are interested in participating, please visit the International Society for Animal Rights website at http://www.isaronline.org, where all scheduled events are listed throughout the country, as well as some internationally.
And if you decide to attend, be sure to bring your pets if you can. Not only will you have a blast meeting other animals at the event, but by showing those around you the bond that you and your pet share, both of you are sure to help create more awareness of the value of becoming pet parents!