(Warning: This article contains graphic images and distressing statistics.)
Every year, approximately 6.5 million dogs and cats enter shelters across the United States. Around 3.2 million find loving homes, a staggering 2.7 million are euthanized. Another 1 million are still waiting for their forever families. These numbers are not just statistics; they represent lives in desperate need of our help.
Why We Need You
Sharing posts about dogs on euthanasia lists is a kind gesture, but it is not enough. We need immediate action. The 2.7 million dogs and cats euthanized annually* will only increase if we do not find more foster homes and raise funds to spay and neuter. Yes, these figures are alarming and frankly disgraceful for a country with the resources of the United States, but awareness is the first step towards change.
As a small rescue, I can only do so much. The larger rescues are overwhelmed and urgently need more hands on deck. They need volunteers, marketing assistance, and fundraising support—simple tasks you can do from home. These rescues include Rescue Dogs Rock NY, Sweet Paws, and Best Friends Animal Society. These incredible 501c3 rescue organizations save the most vulnerable dogs and cats and could truly use your help.
How You Can Help:
Here are several ways you can get involved and make a difference:
Foster: Temporarily provide a home for a dog or cat until they are adopted.
Volunteer: Spend time walking dogs, giving them much-needed exercise and social interaction.
Market and Fundraise: Help rescues raise awareness and funds to support their operations.
Social Media Advocacy: Use your platforms to spread the word and find more fosters.
Be Kind: Whether it's someone surrendering a dog, running a rescue, or a shelter worker, we are all under tremendous pressure to do more with less. Being kind and supportive can make a huge difference in these challenging times.
The Numbers You Need to Know:
For a deeper look behind these statistics, consider the full reports from the ASPCA, No Kill Advocacy Center, and Best Friends Animal Society. Here are some key points to understand the gravity of the situation:
Currently, 2.7 million shelter animals are euthanized every year in the United States.
45% of all cats who enter shelters are eventually euthanized. For feral cats, that number leaps up to nearly 100%.
These beautiful souls are euthanized each year because shelters are too full.
Comprehensive List of Animal Sanctuaries and Shelters:
To help you find a local shelter or rescue in your area, here are some resources:
Rescue Me!: This site provides a state-by-state directory of animal rescues across the country. You can select your state to find local rescues.
Animal Shelter Directory: This directory lists shelters by state and allows you to search by zip code to find the nearest animal shelters
PetLists.org: This site provides an extensive list of shelters and rescues, including breed-specific rescues, making it easier to find organizations near you.
TAKE ACTION NOW!
Please consider stepping up and becoming a part of the solution. Your involvement can save lives and help reduce the alarming euthanasia rates. For those willing to help, you can reach out to me directly at deb@pawsfromafar.org. Together, we can make a difference and save countless lives.
Let's act now and support our local rescues. Your efforts, big or small, can make a world of difference for these animals in need.
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This blog was written by Deb Shapiro, Founder of Paws From Afar
*The Zebra.com
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