National Dog Day Amid Crisis

It's National Dog Day, so why are people giving up their dogs in record numbers? 

 

There is a crisis.  An undeniable, heartbreaking crisis.  Owner surrenders of dogs to rescue and shelters are at record highs.  Contributions and donations to animal charities are at a record low.

Being that we are extremely fond of the bull terrier breed, we have partnered with and collaborated with bull terrier rescues across the nation.  I was heartbroken to see that one of our friends, and an incredible organization, Blue Ridge Bull Terrier Rescue had to close to intake because they simply did not have the funds to continue to operate.  I am hoping that their call to action will generate enough donations for them to open up again to saving bull terriers very soon.  But they are one of many.

We have also been experiencing a huge surge in requests for assistance from people who are doing everything to try to keep their pets.  Some are feeding them food meant for humans from food pantries and going without meals themselves.  The higher cost of living, coupled with the increase in pet food and veterinary care costs have forced people to make a terrible choice.  As a result, shelters have had to close to intake, rescues are overwhelmed and in many cases, pets are abandoned to the streets.

I follow a Facebook group called Lost And Found Pets Of Massachusetts, and the posts have been both heartbreaking and infuriating.  People have been finding pet rabbits, guinea pigs, exotic birds and cats and dogs that have been abandoned.  The ASPCA rescued 40 guinea pigs that someone had dumped in the woods.  And Massachusetts has far more resources for no-kill animal shelters than most states.

Several of the requests we have recently received have been from people who have kindly rescued dogs and cats that had been dumped near their homes.  They have no other resources for assistance in their area.  The shelters are kill shelters, they are full.  If they would take the animals, they would be euthanized within 3 days if not adopted.  

People need to know that these animals can not survive in the wild.  Pet rabbits are not capable of finding shelter and food, guinea pigs can't defend themselves or eat wild foods, birds can't survive a cold winter, dogs and cats who have always been fed and taken care of are lost, frightened and helpless on their own.  They are not better off, it is a death sentence.

A pet is a lifetime commitment.  Any pet.  Do not take one  into your home if you don't accept those terms.  If you need help, move heaven and earth to find a resource to help you.  Don't think your pet is better off somewhere else.  They aren't.  Even if you can only provide the bare minimum, it is better than the alternative.  Give up the things you don't need.  Prioritise your pet's needs just as you do your rent or utility bills.  Pet food is not an "extra" thing, it is a necessary thing.  

We are barely, and I mean barely keeping up with the demand.  We are fundraising constantly, but I have to check our bank balance daily to make sure we can place orders or help with a prescription medicine.  I know things are hard, but if enough people donate a small amount, it makes a huge difference.  Rather than donating your funds to a large charity that spends half of your donation on salaries and administrative fees, help the small charities.  Your dollar there makes an impact.

You can donate to us through our website Rexthetvterrier.org

And you can look for a local rescue that really needs your help, whether it's a cash donation, a pet food donation or to foster an pet.  These are desperate times.

https://time.com/6552905/stray-dogs-animal-shelters-overcrowding/

https://www.vox.com/future-perfect/2023/8/16/23833307/pets-animal-shelters-cats-dogs-affordable-housing-inflation