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Sunday, October 22, 2000. From the American Humane Association
Why Can't You Keep Them Forever?
Even with all the shelters, not all animals can be saved.
Why can't animal shelters keep indefinitely the animals that do not get adopted?
The Humane Society of Charles County does not euthanize animals. If we find an animal is too ill to save, a veterinarian may decide that the best course of action is to euthanize. If the shelter becomes overcrowded, we may send animals to other shelters or rescue groups. Most rescue groups do not euthanize, but other shelters in the county do. That means that for some animals sent to other shelters, there is a chance tht they may be euthanized if a home cannot be found for them after a certain period of time.
Its sad to say, but there is only so much money available to feed and provide medical care for animals that come to shelters. There are only a finite number of cages available. As it becomes apparent that an animal will not be adopted, it becomes cruel to leave it caged for the rest of its life, and the cage can be used to help another animal that has a chance to be adopted. Dogs and cats need the companionship of people. Even if public and private shelters could afford to house and feed these animals through their lifetimes, living in caged areas can eventually cause nervous disorders and other illnesses.
We are working hard to bring the pet population under control so that each animal might have a responsible home. We spay and neuter all of the dogs, cats and rabbits in our care. But for some unwanted animals, a peaceful passing is the kindest way to end their loneliness and suffering. How can you help? Make sure your pets are spayed or neutered to prevent unwanted pregnancies. Keep them in a fenced yard or in the house to prevent them getting away and becoming lost. Don't feed cats or dogs living in the wild...contact animal control so that they may be picked up and prevented from breeding indiscriminantly. Support your local shelter by volunteering, contributing food or needed items, or even provide a monetary donation to help them keep as many as possible for as long as possible.