Why Adopt?
Every day in the United States, thousands upon thousands of puppies and kittens are born because of the uncontrolled breeding of pets. Add to that number the offspring of stray and abandoned companion animals, and the total becomes even more staggering. Every year, between six and eight million dogs and cats enter U.S. shelters; some three to four million of these animals are euthanized because there are not enough homes for them.
facts and information courtesy of HSUS.org
How many animals enter animal shelters each year? And how many are euthanized?
The Humane Society of the US estimates that animal shelters care for 6-8 million dogs and cats every year in the United States, of whom approximately 3-4 million are euthanized.
Why are there so many animals in animal shelters?
According to the latest data from the American Pet Products Association, 63 percent of American households have pets. Sadly, only 10 percent of owned dogs and 18 percent of owned cats were adopted from animal shelters.
Every year, millions of dogs and cats are relinquished by their owners—or rescued from the streets by animal control officers and private citizens—and brought to animal shelters.
How do I adopt a pet?
We urge you (and everyone!) to adopt your pet from an animal shelter, rather than purchasing a pet from a pet store or breeder. Shelters offer an all-shapes-and-sizes potpourri of potential new best friends. You will find puppies and kittens at shelters as well as mature animals. In addition, The HSUS estimates that approximately 25% of shelter animals are purebred. Every animal shelter has its own policies and procedures for adoptions, so you will need to contact the animal shelters in your area to learn how they operate.