Pet breeding has deadly toll

Fri., June 6, 2008

The Spokesman-Review

There were 93 dog and cat ads in last Sunday’s paper. Yet last year approximately 15,456 cats and dogs were dumped at SCRAPS and SpokAnimal. But the breeders keep churning out more. Who cares? Well the 7,400 pets that got put to death might.

Surely these animals that share our lives and homes deserve better than being thrown away with excuses like: “I’m moving” or “I’m putting in a pool” or “He chews” (Well, he’s a puppy and will outgrow it) or “I don’t have time,” etc.

Spay/neuter is a one-time fix, and there are programs to help financially.

It would solve so many problems for the animals, as well as for the various shelters and rescue groups that are overloaded, if owners would stop their pets from breeding.

If you’re having trouble with your pet, check at your local shelter for training classes, advice and help. They’d rather help you than have one more animal dropped off!

As a shelter volunteer, I get to see what you’ve thrown away. Your pet sits in the cage waiting for you to come back.

Most will end their lives there.

R.M. Anderson

Cheney

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