Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Disposable society shouldn't include pets
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Kayaloff lives in Roanoke and is supervisor of the South Roanoke Meals-on-Wheels.
Each day 10,000 humans are born in the U.S., and each day 70,000 puppies and kittens are born. As long as these birth rates exist, there will never be enough homes for all the animals.
As a result, millions of healthy, loving cats, dogs, kittens and puppies face early deaths as a form of animal control. Others are left to fend for themselves against automobiles, the elements, starvation, predators and cruel humans.
Many are used in laboratories, puppy and kitty mills, and in some countries for food consumption.
It is therefore imperative that we spay and neuter our pets.
It is heartbreaking to see all the unwanted animals for sale in the daily newspapers. People who collect animals for laboratories often seize upon these opportunities. And pet stores, unconscionably, breed litter after litter. Even if homes can be found for litters, it means fewer homes for pets in shelters.
Many people desire purebreds, and one out of every four pets brought to shelters is a purebred. In addition, shelters offer designer pets, mixed breeds and "one of a kind" pets.
It is important to do research before adopting a pet.
We live in a disposable society, and often people will relegate pets to shelters because they are no longer trendy or fashionable, or because they have behavioral problems.
Animal trainers and vets can help overcome pet problems, rather than having them be euthanized. Pet adoption should be a lifelong commitment.
Animals are not objects to be disposed of; they are sentient beings who deserve respect for their lives. Spay and neuter your pet to prevent this vicious cycle of euthanizing millions of cats and dogs every year. If you're not part of the solution, you're part of the problem.
Adopting a pet from your local animal shelter will not change the world, but it will change the world for your pet.
