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Dogs are the most popular pets in the world. About 58 million dogs provide love, companionship, and services for humans in the United States, and that number increases every year. But dogs need more than just shelter. They need a nurturing home, food, health care, play time, and rewards for good behavior -- even a simple pat on the head.
Millions of dogs are put to sleep each year. |
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But all too often, people neglect the dogs in their care, and the results can be deadly. Millions of unwanted dogs end up in shelters every year. According to the Humane Society of the United States, 30 to 60 percent of those former pets are put to sleep.
"There are hundreds of reasons why people relinquish their dogs to an animal shelter," says Leslie Isom of the Humane Society. A 1996 study found that nearly a third of people who give up their pets were not prepared to deal with the aggressive behaviors that can develop if an animal is not neutered. Other factors include the unexpected daily time commitment, the "no pets" rule in many apartment buildings, and the fact that some cute, tiny puppies can grow to be large dogs with less appeal.
Shelters are excellent places to adopt a dog. Says Isom: "As many as 30 percent of dogs in shelters are purebreds, so if you are looking for a specific breed, you can find it at your local shelter. If they don't have it, they can probably contact a breed rescue program to locate one for you." But a dog's breed isn't the best indicator of the animal's behavior, Isom continues. If, for example, you had a Golden retriever growing up, you may want to adopt another one, but nothing guarantees that your new dog will be anything like your former pet. For people who can't decide on one breed, but still want to adopt, Isom suggests choosing a mixed breed.
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Capable Canines
Learn about amazing canine companions
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Meet the Dogs
Meet dogs that rescue skiers and herd sheep
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A Second Chance
A training program for service dogs
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Owning a Dog
What you need to know before getting a dog
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Resources
Web links and books related to the program
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