According to the Humane Society of the United States, 6–8 million pets end up in shelters each year and half of those will probably not be adopted. Sadly, the society reports that about 2.4 million healthy, adoptable cats and dogs—about one every 13 seconds — are put down in U.S. shelters each year. Often these animals are the offspring of cherished family pets.

A quarter of the pets in shelters are purebreds. Breed-specific rescue groups always have purebred dogs and puppies looking for new homes.

The Golden Belt Humane Society is no different, noted Director Heather Acheson. Her facility is now full.

Most pets end up homeless through no fault of their own—”moving” and “landlord issues” are the top reasons people give for relinquishing their pets, meaning shelters and rescue groups are full of wonderful, family-ready pets.

Pets adopted from shelters and rescue groups typically cost less than pets purchased or even acquired for free—once you add in the cost of vaccinations, spay/neuter surgery, microchip, dewormer, and other “extras” included in your adoption fee, you’ll probably be surprised what a bargain an adopted pet really is!

Shelters and rescue groups like the Golden Belt Humane Society conduct through behavioral analysis of each pet to ensure that they will be the right fit for your family, dramatically improving the chances your new pet will be an ideal fit.

Shelters and rescue groups can provide advice on making your relationship with your pet the best it can be for the rest of his or her life, so you’ll never have to go it alone.

Whether you want a puppy or a more mature dog, a cat or kitten, a purebred or a one-of-a-kind mixed breed, the shelter has the best selection of animals anywhere — all screened for good health and behavior. Most shelters will even help with spaying and neutering.

That is the case at the GBHS which is also offering specials on adoption fees and vaccines.

There are two points here.

First, when looking to add a pet to your life, consider adopting a homeless animal from your local shelter or rescue group.

Second, put an end to the continued over population of pets. Spay/neuter is a proven way to to do this, ensuring that every pet has a family .

Contact the GBHS if you have a place in your home for a pet.

Dale Hogg