Published in NY Daily News, 8/12/04:
The dog on the subway is very lucky that Officer
Santana is adopting him. Most animals are not that fortunate.
There is a serious overpopulation of dogs and cats,
most of whom are killed in shelters due to irresponsible owners who do not
spay and neuter. People purchase the cute "doggy in the window" and then
realize they do not have time to take care of him, move to a place that does
not allow animals, have allergies, etc. The animal is then abandoned, or
given away in a "free to good home" ad , and other irresponsible people, or
those with nefarious notions, will adopt because something that is "free" is
considered by many as "worthless", or of lesser value, than something they
pay for.
Before you purchase, or adopt an animal, ask yourself
if this will truly be a lifetime commitment. If you cannot honestly say
"yes", then do not get an animal of ANY kind, including a goldfish.
If you find an animal you cannot keep, take him/her to
a shelter, or a rescue group. Be a responsible person -- it will help the
animals, make you feel better, and save hard earned taxpayer's money.
Nadine Zimmer
Las Vegas, NV
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