Finding statistics on animal euthanasia rates is difficult. Animal control facilities and shelters are not required to report all the animals they take in and what becomes of them. While some do keep track, the actual numbers reported are subject to scrutiny. But to get a general picture, let’s look at these statistics:
According to the ASPCA, nearly 4 million animals were euthanized in shelters in 2008. The American Humane Association reports that 56% of dogs and 71% of cats that enter shelters nationwide are euthanized and only about 25% are adopted.
Most likely, any animal lover reading these stats is appalled. For me, bringing it one step closer to home and looking at my city’s numbers, makes me break down in tears:
In Metro Atlanta shelters, 1 animal dies every 7 minutes — that’s 219 a day and 80,313 a year. Astounding, right? But let’s compare Atlanta’s numbers to another large metro city in the US: San Francisco. In San Francisco, less than 1 animal dies every day and only about 317 die every year. (from Not One More in Atlanta)
Have you picked yourself up off the floor yet??! Of course the first question is WHY such a discrepancy? There are many theories and opinions on this one. The basic fact is this — spay/neuter practices in one part of the country compared to the other. Atlanta, and the South as a whole, seems to be behind the times on so many issues. Pet overpopulation is just one of them, and while the problem can be seen in the numbers, the solution must be communicated in the stories of rescue and redemption, of loss and gain, and of efforts made by the little person (me and you) in our own communities.
This is the focus of Rescue Me Atlanta — the solution-go-getters and the animals that are saved, redeemed. It’s not all rosy. Because with every well-intentioned move, taking on too much and veering away from the goal are realities. Rescue Me Atlanta aims to communicate the stories and victories of the dogs and cats (and maybe even other pets!) once left homeless and now living home-free. For its readers and followers, Rescue Me Atlanta hopes that the stories shared here will inspire another to make a difference in the life of an animal in need. Change starts with a look in the mirror, right?! Let’s make it happen!
