What happens to abandoned dogs, or those who run away, or get lost? Many end up in pounds where it is only a matter of time before they are put down.
Animal shelters, which take in unwanted dogs and try to rehome them, have been driving home the message over the last five to ten years the importance of spaying and neutering dogs. This has helped reduce the numbers of stray dogs in many parts of the USA.
Still, some animals will end up in shelters, often through no fault of their own. Their owner may have died, or become unable to look after them, or worse, been unwilling to look after them.
On the flip side, some might end up in shelters because they were too much to handle for their owner, they may have become too boisterous around the children or had some behavioral issue.
Your first port of call when looking for anew dog should be an animal shelter as they have a whole range of dogs. You may even find the puppy you have always wanted right there.
Your decision to adopt from a shelter is noble but remember a few key points. It is rare for the shelter to have in depth knowledge of the health of the pet, so any existing conditions or potential problems may surface without warning.
Likewise the shelter can rarely vouch for the animal's temperament, so caution should be exercised, especially if you are choosing a dog to be around your kids. In addition be prepared to have to do a little dog obedience with your new pet to iron out any bad habits his former owner allowed him to have.
The first days and weeks are bound to be a learning curve for you and your dog, so be gentle but firm.
In the United States the Humane Society works for animal protection. A national NPO, it has its hub in DC. You will be able to find a regional branch near you wherever you live in the USA. It receives no government funding.
The Humane Society is active in the protection of native species as well as pets and livestock. It is the voice of animal rights, lobbying for better conditions, prosecuting those who ill treat, educating people about animals and caring for the natural world.
If you are looking for a pet the Humane Society can help; its local branches hold many unwanted animals looking for new homes.
There are ways you can aid the Society though. Adoption is a massive benefit. Fundraising is essential for the work of the organization. Volunteers make up a large part of the workforce.
All of these will help the Humane Society in their work. Animal shelters are the last resort for sick, injured and homeless animals. Make sure you don't forget about the animals no-one remembered.
