Shelters don't necessarily mean forever...

I read the Daily News article about the number of animals that are euthanized and was horribly saddened. The information in this article was shocking. When I think of shelter, I think oh good, at least that animal has a place to live until they get adopted. But not all animals do get adopted. Some stay at the shelter for months or years. That can get very expensive in terms of feeding and caring for an animal. As responsible pet owners, we oftentimes are just busy with our own lives and taking care of our own loving furry family members. It's easy to just forget about the shelter dogs that are out there because we just don't see them. Out of sight, out of mind. Shelters are sometimes very far away from the rest of the suburban neighborhood and we oftentimes can just drive by without really thining too much about it. But they do exist and need our help. I try to donate as often as possible to shelters to give treats to these dogs who perhaps once lived in a home. They deserve kindness and love too. The dogs and cats over at the North Shore Animal League get fantastic care, they have a park to walk in and really great volunteers and kennel care workers that really do an amazing job. If you know someone who is able and willing to adopt a dog/cat just lead the way to a shelter. You may very well be saving the life of a great dog or cat and saving your friend the trouble of hidden ailments oftentimes found in petstore purchases. Check out the city shelters online or in person. In any event, a kind donation is well worth the effort and appreciated by many. You will feel really good after you make that donation or adopt that dog or cat so just do it.

http://www.nydailynews.com/06-20-2006/news/local/story/428106p-361022c.html

I guess along those lines, the responsibility of pet ownership should be addressed. I really like how Animal Haven works with people and teaches classes on obedience. They are a really great group. If you get the chance, check them out online.