Resolve to do something about it

Regarding the Dec. 30 article, “Stanwood couple shelter’s best pals”: In spite of the millions of dollars and countless hours donated by generous and caring people like the Edsons, roughly 3 million dogs will be killed in America this year. Their only “crime” being the fact they don’t have a home. This tragedy not only goes on each year, it grows like a cancer.

Shelters are so busy with the day-to-day chores of caring for these animals that they don’t have much time left over to get to the root of the problem: There aren’t enough homes for all the animals being born.

Resolve to end this senseless tragedy.

  • Spay and neuter your pets. Every animal born means one less available home. It doesn’t matter if you have homes lined up for all your puppies. It’s still one less available home for each one.

  • Rescue and adopt. If you must have a specific breed, contact Purebred Animal Rescue. Buying from breeders encourages more breeding. Yes, I know there are “responsible” breeders, but it’s still one less home for each puppy. Sorry.

  • Keep your pet for its lifetime. Shelters are stuffed with teenage dogs that someone got as a cuddly puppy, then failed to do the necessary work. If you’ve forgotten how much time a puppy needs, try fostering for your local shelter. You’ll get a puppy “fix,” and a reminder.

  • Volunteer at a shelter. The needs are endless. Make 2003 the year you do something to help.

    Langley

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