When we think of our beloved dogs, we think of them as our companions, our best friends and, often, as extensions of our families. We all have unique stories of how these animals have come into our lives and, one way or another, won our hearts after (if not actually before) their arrival. According to a survey conducted by the American Pet Product Association (APPA), the National Pet Owners Survey reported that 85 million families own a pet. Of that number, 60 percent of those animals are dogs. There is no denying that we haven’t completely opened our hearts, and our homes, to these four-legged furry friends.
Under certain circumstances, some dogs may not be as fortunate to land a good home right off the bat. For one reason or another, it is common that dogs may be given up or have otherwise found their way into a shelter. To better help understand why animals may be rehomed or go to a shelter we must primarily look at the dog owners first. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) and the National Rehoming Survey that they conducted, 47 percent of dogs and 42 percent of cats are rehomed due to “pet problems.” Pet problems was a term used to describe problems in behavior such as aggression, health-related issues and dogs growing larger than expected.
We, as pet owners, owe it to the animals we care for to be informed and educated on their breed and what may be linked with caring for that breed. When having animals we have to factor in the cost of care for them. They need regular veterinary check-ups, parasitic prevention, grooming, and a healthy and well-balanced diet. These are all factors to consider and be informed about when deciding to add a dog to your family.
April 30 is National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day. The APPA reports that approximately 2 million dogs are adopted from shelters each year. Euthanasia numbers in shelters are decreasing across the United States as a direct correlation to adoptions from shelters. If you or someone you know is looking for a dog to welcome into your home, be encouraged to look at your local shelters and adoption groups first. Benefits to giving these dogs a new home is that you likely won’t have to potty train, and most of these dogs have undergone a form of obedience training. In return you may find your next best friend and beloved companion.
