65,834 dogs and cats killed last year in central Florida shelters
August 28th, 2006 by admin
Today’s Orlando Sentinel features an article about the growing number of animals brought to area shelters. The paper reported that despite efforts to teach people responsible pet ownership, including educational programs in elementary and middle schools, “there has been a 76 percent increase in the number of animals being brought to the Orange County shelter.” The County is building a second shelter on the east side of Orlando, due to open in two years. The paper noted that of the 107,865 dogs and cats impounded by central Florida shelters, 61% were ultimately killed (i.e. “euthanized”). (Data came from shelters in Volusia, Polk, Orange, Brevard, Lake, Seminole and Osceola Counties.)
Thankfully, the paper included information about low-cost sterlization services available in central Florida. “Why spay or neuter your pet?,” the paper asked, “Spaying or neutering helps dogs and cats live longer. It also makes them more affectionate and less likely to bite or run away.”