If you haven't heard, Bo Obama a.k.a Bobama is the new "First Dog" of the United States of America. The 6 month old Portuguese Water Dog, a present from Senator Ted Kennedy; arrived at The White House just in time for Easter with the President and his family.
Technically, Bo isn't exactly what you would consider a rescue dog from the shelter, but he is a second-chance dog. He initially lived with another family but was returned to the Kennedys because he didn't get along well with the other dogs there. Now he is a member of the Obama family, and is the most famous dog in America.
Unfortunately, many other dogs in the shelters and those who stray may not be as lucky as Bo. Did you know that approximately 3 to 4 million dogs and cats are euthanized every year, and that every dog purchased by a breeder is a death sentence for those in rescue centers? And in bad economic times like this, it becomes worse for these furry friends. Animal shelters and control centers see a significant increase in the number of pets being surrendered, left abandoned in vacant housing or dropped off along the side of a road to fend for themselves.
If you want to own a pet or know someone who wants to own a pet, why not adopt? It doesn't cost very much to adopt a pet, and for most animals, they don't need expensive toys or food. All they want is a good home. Many of my friends who have adopted their pets from shelters and rescue groups are very happy pet owners - some even call themselves pet parents! These are some of the ones I know about, there might be more rescue groups out there as well.
Animal Care & Control
In every county or city, there is an Animal Care & Control center that rescues animals and help them find good homes. Search your local phone book for your nearest location or search online for the website for the county you live in. I have heard that because they get so many animals and don't have enough space as the number increases, many of the animals are euthanized a lot quicker if they don't get adopted.
Humane Society of the United States
http://www.hsus.org/
Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA)
http://www.spca.com/
Adopt-A-Pet
http://www.adoptapet.com/
Animal Shelter Org
http://www.animalshelter.org/
I believe the Obamas will enjoy the special moments with their new Presidential Pooch; after all a dog is a man's best friend. Check out the video below.
Comments for this post
Posts
