The statistics from the Humane Society of the United States say so much: Each year, U.S. animal shelters take in between 6 million and 8 million stray or unwanted dogs and cats, and about half of them end up getting euthanized because there are not enough homes for them to go to.  

Here are a few more statistics to bring it closer to home:

·         Last year, New York City shelters took in almost 39,000 cats and dogs, and nearly half were euthanized, according to a piece published by the New York Post on March 9, 2008.

·         In the Chicago area, more than 50,000 unwanted animals are euthanized each year, according to the PACT Humane Society in Downers Grove, Ill.

·         In 2007, more than 17,300 cats and dogs were euthanized in Los Angeles, according to the city’s Animal Services department.

But statistics for many people are just numbers — no matter how large they are — and can be easily stashed in some hardly used filing cabinet in the back of the brain. And they go there usually because these people think there is nothing they can do to make a difference. How many have excused away doing anything by thinking or saying, “What can one person do?” Too many.

The truth is, everyone, young and old, can do something, no matter how small or insignificant it may seem when put up against the scope of this problem.  Here are few ways that you can help reduce the numbers:

Educate Yourself

You can’t make a difference without understanding and personally connecting to the problem. Maybe you don’t have a pet and never had one. Go down to the local pound or shelter; ask for a tour of the facility; look into the eyes of the animals; ask questions, such as, “How many are put down every month?” You won’t leave unmoved and wanting to do something.

Educate the Children

Real change won’t come until the public learns how to be responsible pet owners. This education should begin with the children. They too should connect with the issue. Bring them to the shelter. Give the problem a face for them. In fact, some shelters have educational materials for kids; some even invite schools to bring students to their facilities for field trips.

Donate

Local animal shelters, kill and no-kill, do as much as they can with what their small budgets allow. They provide low-cost spaying/neutering and microchip services, both which are proven to decrease the number of animals euthanized. This is in addition to caring for unwanted animals and adoption efforts. These organizations depend heavily on donations. Cash is the best way to give, but it’s not the only way. Many shelters need supplies, such as pet food, kitty litter and litter boxes, towels, blankets and carriers. If you have unwanted clothes, books or other items, some shelters have thrift stores or organize regular tag sales to raise funds.

Volunteer

Shelters are always in need of volunteers, whether it’s to walk dogs, play with cats or lend a hand at a fundraiser. Bring your kids. They also need folks to serve as foster families, especially for animals recovering from illnesses and injuries or that need to be better socialized for placement.

Adopt

If you don’t have a pet or have room for one or two more, adopt one. Do as I do: Take one that has been on death row the longest.