The truth is that you would not like to hear what happens to dogs that dont get adopted. And if you are ready to hear the truth, please read this article and take a pledge to never let it happen again.
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There are so many dogs in shelters that need homes, yet there remains an overwhelming number of people who don’t care to adopt. Approximately 530,000 cats and 390,000 dogs are euthanized because they were never adopted every year in the states.
It is a heart-wrenching statistic, that should trouble the conscience of any dog owner who is approaching a breeder to get a new puppy, instead of adopting these innocent animals. With the very same effort, people can give a home to these wonderful dogs waiting with eager eyes to get to their forever homes.
What Happens To Dogs Who Do Not Find New Homes?
When dogs are not adopted, they end up living in cages their whole lives. Or worse yet, they are euthanized because they are not “adoptable”.
Even if you consider the situation of humane shelters that don’t go about putting dogs down, the lives of dogs are pretty bad. These shelters cannot say no to new dogs and often end up taking more dogs than the actual capacity.
Many shelters that get good funds stay updated on the latest animal-related health issues. They have put a great deal of effort into preventing the spread of any diseases or parasites and making the shelters a better place for dogs to live in.
Nevertheless, some animals carry diseases that cannot be identified in time. If you leave your dog at a shelter, there is a chance they may get sick from some such infection, and possibly die a painful, horrible death.
So, to summarize, an unadopted dog will be euthanized if not adopted within the prescribed time, or suffers from a severe health issue, and the shelter is full. If the shelter isn’t full and your dog is nice and of the desired breed, it may be granted a temporary lease of life, but only for a short time.
In How Many Days Do Animal Shelters Put Dogs Down?
In most cases, it maybe just a few days or a week before your dog is put down.
Shelters are full, and we must adopt dogs and give them a forever home. But what about those dogs that come in with so much to give? We know they deserve better, but we can’t provide that for them.
Most shelters may only have enough space for a few days before they’re forced to make some tough choices. Most dogs are euthanized when time is up to free up space for more incoming puppies.
This is the reality of our animal shelters. Or, at least, most of them are. Because not all shelters euthanize every dog, a surprising number save them from certain death and find homes for them as well.
As it turns out, that’s because some shelters have other plans for some dogs after their stay is over. With some proper planning, dog shelters can find new homes for dogs who would otherwise be saved only to end up in the trash.
Is It Illegal To Abandon A Pet?
Yes, in many states, it is a felony.
Animal abandonment refers to leaving an animal alone or allowing an animal to be abandoned in a situation where the animal may be harmed. The owner of the animal is responsible for the animal’s misery. In the United States, this is a significant criminal felony.
Unfortunately, once the dog is abandoned, and does not have any way to track its owner, it is nearly impossible to apply these laws.
Why Should I Adopt A Dog?
Although the task of adopting a dog can be daunting, it’s also incredibly rewarding. After all, you’re choosing to bring a new part of your family into your life and give them a forever home.
There are plenty of good reasons for considering adoption, such as saving lives, helping families without space for their pets or finances to care for an animal properly, and having the chance to discover someone else’s needs that align with yours!
How To Adopt A Dog From A Shelter Or Rescue Group
You need to visit the shelter directly.
The Humane Society of the United States estimates that approximately 17 million dogs enter shelters every year. While many of these animals are eventually put up for adoption and find loving homes, others may not be so lucky.
You can help by visiting your local humane society, animal shelter, or rescue group (we have a list of great ones in the U.S. here ) and taking the time to look at their available animals.
If you find a dog that looks like a good fit for both you and your family, an adoption agreement will likely be offered. The terms of this agreement can vary depending on the shelter, but typically the landowner will allow you to keep the dog.
How To Adopt A Dog From A Reputable Breeder?
Talk to them directly or go to their website.
Your best bet for finding a dog that’s in good health and exactly what you’re looking for is to visit the breeder’s website or ask them about their available dogs.
You may want to contact the breeder directly via email or phone, so you can learn more about the breed and get some hands-on experience before making an adoption decision. The Humane Society of the United States also has a great list of breeders with clear guarantees on their websites.
Is It Possible To Return A Dog Once It Has Been Adopted?
Yes, in fact in most cases you are obliged to return the dog.
Sometimes, it may not work out with a dog that you have adopted. In such cases, you do not have to be worried. Most humane shelters will happily take the dog back as long as you have a solid rationale behind returning the dog, and you can get to choose a different one as well.
What Are The Costs That Need To Be Considered After Adopting Dogs?
There are many advantages to adopting a dog. They can be an excellent source of companionship and offer unconditional love. Dogs also provide protection and warn of danger and help people with disabilities.
However, there are some disadvantages to adopting a pet dog, including the costs associated with care and expenses such as vet bills, training classes and obedience lessons, emergency kit items like food bowls and leashes, bowls for water or food, etc.
Medicine & Vaccination
There are also the costs of vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, and heartworm medication required annually in pet dogs. When shopping for a new home for the dog, be sure to include the cost of toys, treats, and other supplies required for the dog.
Typical vet visits can cost your about $150 and emergency visits may go upto $1,000 per visit.
Grooming Costs
Most dogs will live a long life if they are taken care of properly. If you love your pet and want him to live out his full lifespan, you are encouraged to provide adequate health care as he ages.
You can further reduce grooming costs from a professional by taking care of your pet by clipping his nails regularly, trimming his hair, brushing and bathing him, and providing routine check-ups.
Depending on what kind of grooming you are getting done, average costs may vary between $20-$100.
Clothes and Meals
The cost of taking care of a dog is similar to that of a child. For example, dogs need coats in winter. They should be fed three times a day, so food bowls and water bowls must be present in the home. Dogs also need a place to sleep, so investing in dog beds and toys is necessary.
Typical costs of meals vary between $20 to $60 a month.
Bedding and Home
The task of purchasing and cleaning a home for a new pet does not entail any significant cost. Save on the cost of grooming by doing the work yourself or asking friends or family members if they would like to help. Many people take advantage of free pet homes, and some are even rescued from free shelters. You can also get a new dog bed from pet stores.
Depending upon the quality of the bedding you are providing, it may cost anywhere between $20 to $150
A Few Final Words
Shelter dogs spend their lives in cages and with other animals they are sometimes not adopted and given a chance to live with humans. More than 50 percent of shelter dogs will never be adopted out at all.
Even if they find a new home, statistics show that only about ten percent will make it out of their first year alive. What is awful is that these dogs end up back in the shelter, waiting for yet another chance at adoption. In that light, it’s no wonder that so many of them live out their lives in cages or kennels.
Thank you for reading this article, and we take this opportunity to once again remind you to adopt, not buy.