We've heard all the excuses....it got too big, we're moving, we're having a baby, we don't want it anymore, it barks too much, it sheds too much, it's too much responsibility, etc. Dogs are living, breathing creatures who feel pain, hurt, joy, and loneliness. When you surrender them and leave them, they are confused, lonely, scared, and often depressed.
If you don't believe me, just volunteer up at a shelter. You will see dogs looking out the window desperately looking for their owners to come back. You will see dogs curled up in the fetal position not eating because they are depressed. You will see dogs desperately try to get your attention because they miss love so much.
If people took care of their animals, we would not have this overcrowding and euthanasia problem we have. If people spayed and neutered their pets, unwanted puppies would not be born. If people promised a dog a home and delivered that promise for life, dogs would not have to be euthanized for space.
I don't want to be on a soapbox but I am tired of getting my heart broken. I have been there when I've seen the animals being led to the back. I've been the one to give them their last hugs, kisses, and treats. And if you think the shelter workers like this, think again. One of the workers at our shelter had to be sent home because she was so distraught about it. She hugs them and loves them as she gives them the injection. It is a peaceful process. Although it is a process that should not have to happen.
Pictures speak a thousand words and can touch you in ways that nothing else can. Below is a picture of Candy's empty kennel right after she was euthanized. I had just played with her and given her treats, hugs, kisses, and love. Ten minutes later, she was gone. I was devastated. There is only so much I can do. I volunteer at the shelter....loving them, walking with them, playing with them, and photographing them. And I share them all over Facebook. It sometimes seems like an uphill battle, but I am determined to win this battle. I will NOT give up. However, I need people to join my army. Who will join? Who will help me in this battle because I cannot win it alone.
Please join me in educating others. Many people just don't know. It's going to take a village to educate everyone. Spay and neuter your animals. There are many low-cost clinics around in the DFW area that will spay and neuter your animals for an inexpensive price. It is worth it. And you will be saving animals' lives.
For information on affordable spay and neuter services, please visit TCAP at http://www.texasforthem.org
I will leave tonight with this quote...
"Saving one dog will not change the world, but surely for that one dog, the world will change forever."
-- Karen Davison
Blessings to you and your furry ones,
Angela
