How Do We End Animal Euthanasia?
Copyright: Michelle Williams, DVM, March 15, 2006.
The euthanasia of unwanted animals will not be ended by adoption programs, animal rescue, or bigger shelters alone. We must attack the root of the problem. Surplus animals are caused by the failure to spay and neuter, irresponsible pet ownership, and "back yard" breeders. Animals of marginal quality and often poor health are shipped into our community from out-of-state puppy mills and sold for high prices. Some breeds, such as the pitbull, become cultural symbols and are bred to boost the owner's standing in his community. Animals have become a disposable commodity in our society, and are cast aside when they become inconvenient. Our fast-paced lifestyle often leads owners to procrastinate on that spay until it is too late. Free and low-cost spay and neuter opportunities are available, but it is more than just a matter of money these days. There is a lack of education, a twisted sense of machismo, and a general lack of responsibility for the animals we create or collect. The answer is not in finding places to store these pets, but the means to halt their production. There is no one, single solution, since the cause is multifaceted.. Education and legislation are the easier parts. Changing society's attitudes will be the biggest challenge. Have you checked yours today?