Why are there fewer purebred dogs in shelters?
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August 5, 2015Why are there fewer purebred dogs in shelters?
If you’re an animal lover, you’ll hate the thought of a beautiful dog being kept in a shelter. The good news is the number of purebreds found in animal shelters has dropped to 5 percent according to a report produced by the National Animal Interest Alliance. Even though the number of dogs and cats entering shelters averages around 6-8 million each year, this number has declined from the 12-20 million according to a report produced by he Humane Society of the United States. Here are a few reasons why there are fewer dogs entering shelters, especially purebred dogs, and more of them in happy homes.
More Dogs Are Being Neutered
If you’re a fan of Bob Barker, you probably remember his constant reminders to spay and neuter your pets. If you don’t, then your dog might end up breeding and popping out a dozen puppies you’re unable to take care of. If that happens, then you’ll have to put them in a shelter where they run the risk of never being adopted. Neutering eliminates this possibility. Plus, neutering your pets will make them more inclined to stay home instead of running off, and it can also increase your dog’s lifespan.
More Dogs Have Microchips Implanted In Them
One of the main reasons why purebred dogs are in shelters is because they wander away from home and their owners are unable to find them. Now that microchips have become more popular, it’s easy for owners to keep track of their furry friends. Luckily, the process isn’t very painful for the animals. A chip is simply implanted under the dog’s loose skin, which only takes a few seconds. Then, if the dog becomes lost, a vet will be able to scan the chip in order to find out the owner’s contact information and help it get home safely. The key to the microchip being used as a successful means of reuniting owners with lost pets is maintaining accurate records with the microchip company. If you microchip your animals make sure to update the information on record if any of your contact information should change.
More Dogs Have Identification Tattoos
Instead of getting a microchip implanted beneath a dog’s skin, some owners have opted to give their dog an identification tattoo. Instead of being scanned like a microchip, the information will be visible and readable to anyone who finds the animal after it is lost. Although it takes about 10 minutes to complete the procedure, and your pet will have some pain, the instant identification process for someone who locates your missing pet is worth it to some owners.
People Are Becoming More Responsible
Owning a dog is a huge responsibility. Animals require love, attention, food, toys, and exercise. When someone buys a pet without realizing the amount of time and money it will cost them, they could end up dropping the animal off at a shelter in order to get rid of the big responsibility. Luckily, more people are becoming educated about how much energy it takes to raise a dog, which means they are only going to purchase a pup when they’re ready for such a big commitment. Even if you get a dog and aren’t able to take care of it 24/7, there are plenty of services, like dog walkers and doggie daycare, that can help keep the dog healthy.
Because of the changes we have seen in the way our culture views pet ownership reports show the number of dog is decreasing in shelters, especially pure bred dogs. But there are still a ton of animals waiting for new homes. The Humane Society of the United States reported there are still 2.7 million dogs and cats euthanized each year in shelters. Before you buy a cute little puppy from a pet shop, take some time to visit your local shelter. More than likely you’re going to find the perfect furry friend to fit your families lifestyle and you’ll be saving a life who may not get another chance.
What breed of dog do you own?
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