From Janet Tobiassen Crosby, DVM,
Your Guide to Veterinary Medicine.
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Most people have probably heard that there is a pet overpopulation problem in the United States. The degree of overpopulation and humane euthanasia to control the problem is shocking. The numbers of animals euthanized across the country each day, month, and year is staggering. The annual numbers range wildly from four million to 15 million, depending on the source. Either way, that is too many!

There are two solutions to this problem:

1. spay and neuter pets and
2. adopt animals in need of a home. (Spaying and neutering is a very important subject, and will be addressed in a separate article.)

Like many commercial sites, animal adoption agencies have taken to the Web to reach a greater audience. You can view photos and read histories of animals available - ranging from iguanas to horses and of course, dogs and cats. Some animals are rescued from abuse or neglect, some are 'typical' shelter animals, available for a variety of reasons. There are also many breed rescue groups.

Most online shelters and rescue organizations are nonprofit, and are often in need of monetary and supply donations. Along the same lines, most are in need of volunteers. Look for the 'how you can help' links on many of the shelter sites. For a more complete listing of online shelters and organizations, please visit the Adoption Links.

Additional reading:
Pet Overpopulation
Just how bad is the problem, and what can you do?

Text: Copyright © Janet Tobiassen Crosby. All rights reserved.