Adopt dogs at shelters

Pet overpopulation is definitely a problem in our country. Everyday thousands of dogs are born, but at the same time thousands are destroyed at animal shelters. There are reasons for this, and there are things we can start doing to change it.

First we need to make sure our pets are spayed or neutered. This not only helps control the population but helps keep our animals healthy.

Another reason for the overpopulation is puppy mills. Puppy mills are breeding facilities that constantly breed dogs (mainly purebred) for sale and profit. They produce animal cruelty by lack of food, shelter, veterinary care and human socialization.

You have probably heard of puppy mills before, but you might be surprised to learn the majority of puppies being sold today originate from these mills. According to research done by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the majority of puppies in pet stores come from these facilities. You have to be very careful when deciding on where you get your puppy. Adopting an animal from shelters is the best way you can help fight this issue. Not only are you saving a dog's life, but you are also hurting the demand for the mill puppies. Adopting a dog will also save you hundreds of dollars.

There are many ways we can help, but first make sure you are ready for the responsibility of owning a pet. With everyone working together, we can change a problem that we as a society have created.

Steven Simonelli

Streamwood