1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8..one dog was just euthanized at a shelter. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8..one cat was just euthanized at a shelter. Every 8 seconds, another homeless pet’s life has ended prematurely at a shelter (HSUS). These pets’ lives are ended for one reason and one reason only-- there is just not enough space in the shelters for all the homeless pets.
What can YOU do to help?
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SPAY/NEUTER YOUR PETS!
By getting this simple, routine procedure done you can greatly reduce the number of
homeless pets in our society. Think that spaying/neutering your ONE pet really won’t make a
huge difference? Think again!
Did you know that just ONE unsprayed female dog and her puppies will produce 97,000 
puppies in seven years? Did you know that just ONE unsprayed female cat and her 
kittens will produce 420,000 kittens in seven years time?



-American Society for the Prevention and Cruelty of Animals
If that is not enough to convince you, did you know your pet will actually live a healthier,
happier life after the procedure? Your furry family member will be less likely to roam away
from home in search of a mate and will be more focused on giving you love and attention!
If you are worried about the financial aspects, did you know that this quick, simple procedure
will make your pet less prone to diseases? Neutered males have no risk for testicular
disease, while spayed females have a lower risk of uterine diseases. This one time procedure
will do less to your wallet than extensive therapies and treatments if your pet develops one of
these diseases. Also, there are many clinics all over the country that offer low-cost
spay/neuter programs!
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ADOPT, DON’T SHOP!
Looking to add a new furry member to your family? Instead of paying hundreds of dollars at the pet shop or at the breeders, go to your local animal shelter. Your wallet and your new adopted family member will thank you!!
Think that the only pets there are mixed breeds? Wrong! The Humane Society of the United States estimates that 25% of dogs in shelters are purebreds. But on that note, did you know that mixed breeds are less prone to genetic defects than purebreds (HSUS)? Mixed breeds provide the characteristics and genetics of multiple breeds in one pet!
Looking for a particular breed? Do not think that you have to run to a breeder to find that particular breed you are looking for. There are many rescues out there that dedicate themselves to a specific breed! Here are a few examples of breed rescues in North Carolina: Great Dane Rescue of the Carolinas (http://www.greatdanerescue.org/), Neuse River Golden Retriever Rescue (http://www.goldenrescuenc.org), and NC Yorkie Rescue, Inc. (http://ncyorkierescue.org/default.aspx).
Looking for a puppy or a kitten? While there are puppies and kittens out there than need adopted, there are many “teenagers” and adult pets that are still waiting for their forever home. Puppies are a big commitment. They have a lot of energy, require lots of socialization with other dogs and humans, and need a lot of training. Do you have the time for training and multiple potty breaks throughout the day? You could benefit from getting a dog that is already a few years old and potty trained! Maybe you want a pet but are not sure you can commit to the 15+ years of the animal’s life. Adopt a senior dog or cat! They may be exactly what you are looking for. They will provide you with unconditional love and be eternally grateful that they finally made it to their forever homes.
The BEST part of adopting from a shelter? Most shelters have taken care of the spaying/neutering of your pet for you!
Want to help reduce the number of dogs and cats euthanized at shelters each year? Pledge to follow these two simple steps when adding a new pet to your family. Spay/neuter your pets so they can live a healthier, happier life with you and not contribute to the pet overpopulation. Adopt all your furry family members instead of buying them from breeders or pet shops. Imagine the difference we can make if everyone pledges to follow these two simple steps! Spread the word!
Don’t forget to also check out ‘The Shelter Pet Project’ (http://www.theshelterpetproject.org/) and ‘Petfinder’ (http://www.theshelterpetproject.org/) to help you find your next pet!
Sources: Humane Society of the United States (HSUS); American Society for the Prevention and Cruelty of Animals (ASPCA)