There are a little over 4,000 shelters helping the public learn about dog adoption and bringing home a pet that may have gotten lost or simply not have an owner. These nonprofit businesses are crucial to providing the refuge and care countless animals require for a better life.

In many cases, shelters are a dog's last chance before the worst can happen. The closer we get to National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week in November, the more we need to reflect on the critical work volunteers and team members do in these organizations.

5 Interesting Facts About Animal Shelters

1. Some Have Open Admission

Finding a “dog rescue near me” on Google should bring up a few quality locations. While all animal shelters are diverse, many have an open admission policy that accepts all animals brought to them, regardless of age, temperament, or current health.

This can be extremely challenging as these facilities will get overcrowded, and resources are limited by public donations and funds.

2. Only Four Possible Outcomes

An animal shelter only performs four key functions for the animals they care for. This includes:

• Owner reunification due to RFID chips in the pet's body, ear, or paws. About 93% of dogs and 75% of cats are reunited with their owners.
• Opening adoption for the public to take home a rescued pet into a loving home. Roughly 1 million shelter animals are adopted each year.
• Transferring a pet to another animal shelter or some form of animal rescue.
• Euthanizing the pet after a specific time when no one wants to adopt the animal. Close to 920,000 shelter pets are euthanized each year.

3. Some Countries Do Not Permit Euthanasia

The reality of euthanasia is extremely upsetting to anyone who loves pets. Dog adoption is always a better alternative, and some nations like Austria, Czech Republic, Germany, Greece, and Italy refuse to use euthanasia as an option.

4. Shelters Rely Heavily on Donations

Public funding for animal shelters depends on the town. Whenever there is a shortfall in budgeting, these organizations tend to be on the “first cut” list. This means most shelters and dog rescue near me rely solely on public donations of goods and funds.

5. Animal Shelters Provide Exceptional Volunteer Experience

Volunteering at local animal shelters is a fantastic way to connect with like-minded individuals, give back to the animal community, and help boost your resume or experience before veterinary school.

Why National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week is Crucial

The truth of the matter is that the more attention we pay to National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week, the greater the help these organizations receive. Not only in cat food, dog beds, and funding but also in volunteer and staffing opportunities. Other reasons include:

• Cultivating Appreciation: An animal shelter goes unnoticed until it is needed. Most people only think of a shelter when they wish to adopt or need to drop off a pet they can no longer care for. Raising awareness builds an appreciative culture for those doing this work.
• Highlighting the Role: Community leaders and partner businesses get a better view of shelters during National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week. This is an opportunity to highlight the importance of programs like dog adoption, microchipping, vaccinations, and spaying/neutering services.
• Boosting Adoptions: During this week, awareness is brought to the forefront of the general public. Instead of seeking a “puppy farm,” breeder, or nearby pet store, they come to the rescue to help adopt a pet that may be facing euthanasia due to lack of space and resources.

FAQs

Are shelters for profit?

Almost all animal shelters in the United States are 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. They function on the good graces of donations, grants, and community support.

Are shelter animals grateful?

Animals are not humans. They express their love in many different ways. Shelter pets require the same care, love, and treatment as any other pet. However, many do bond with owners when moving from a dire situation to a more comfortable state of living.

Why do shelters kill so many animals?

“Kill shelters” are a lot less common than they used to be years ago. Not every animal will be adopted, and shelters cannot continue caring for them with limited resources and time.

How can I support a pet shelter?

If you can donate supplies or funds or find the time to give your time as a volunteer, you’ll be doing an incredibly kind service. These tools help boost cat and dog adoption.

What is the adoption process and application process?

The specific adoption process will be based on the unique animal shelter you visit. In general, this may include filling out an application, meeting the animal, maybe a home visit or interview, and paying a fee. The idea is to ensure a good home so the pet never comes back to the shelter.

What needs to be prepared to adopt a pet?

For the best bonding experience, you should always have your home set up for the incoming pet. That may include food, bedding, suitable space, and toys like the Monster Plush Toy Shake Bouncer from Petbobi on Amazon.com. You may also want to commit to a week or so of staying home and spending a lot of time with your pet, so it begins to feel comfortable.

Wrapping Up

National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week is a fantastic chance to boost awareness of the crucial role these organizations, team members, and volunteers play in our modern society. Saving pets from euthanasia and promoting pet or dog adoption helps put more four-legged friends in loving homes.

Do your part by contributing time, money, or the occasional item. Even a bag of food once a month can make all the difference when it comes to caring for animals in need.