Why animal shelters are important

Established by The Humane Society of the United States HSUS in , this week has been set aside to pay tribute to the multitude of contributions made by animal shelters in communities all over the country. Most of the work done by our shelters is done quietly and with little or no fanfare. But the work is profound and critically important nonetheless. The people who work day in and day out on behalf of the voiceless deserve so much praise.

But they are more than worthy of our gratitude. Imagine your community without shelters and animal rescue groups. Imagine the millions of animals cared for in our shelters each year instead being abandoned to lives on the street. The picture is not pretty and the ripple effect would be huge. The impacts on public health and safety would be immeasurable.

And the impact on the welfare of our beloved companions would be devastating. These organizations have about 3. They know that one of the best ways to prevent that number from increasing is by spaying and neutering these dogs and cats. To help encourage new pet parents who adopt , the cats and dogs are either spayed or neutered before the animal is available to adopt, or the procedure is included in the low adoption cost.

Many rescue organizations also work to help animals who are not meant for life as a domesticated pet. These counselors facilitate the adoption of cats, dogs, and other animals at the shelter who need homes. They get to know the personalities of the pets, and of the potential pet parents. And then try to make the best match possible.

Sadly, every community in America requires an animal shelter. When you adopt a pet from our shelter, you assist a not-for-profit organization, but also send a message to others who will be asking you for years to come where you obtained your adorable pet.

Shelters improve the community by mandating that adopted animals be spayed or neutered. This requirement diminishes chances that more unwanted animals will enter the world. Top 10 Reasons to Adopt from an Animal Shelter 1. You save a life. You help break the cycle of pet overpopulation. You help stop cruelty in mass breeding facilities. Part of the job as a volunteer is that you work with the animals so they can become adoptable. Most of the animals we receive through our open door shelter are strays and have had little to no human interaction.

By working with them on a semi-regular basis, they begin to trust you and other humans in extension. This helps them come out of their shell, stop being so timid, and become desirable to adopters.

You instantly see the results of your labor. As you begin to work with an animal, you can see a change in their personality almost instantly. You can almost see the change in their behavior instantly. Now, that is something entirely rewarding. Animal shelter volunteers are needed! We have a constant intake of animals. Each one of these animals needs your love and care.