3 7a? i \o fa a eae Simple Acts Can Save HomelessPets’ Lives (NAPSA)—The numbers alone are staggering. Each year in the U.S., 8 million pets end up in shelters, and of these, only half find new homes. Approximately 11,000 pets a day, or 4 million each year, are euthanized, even though most of them are adoptable. Despite these overwhelming statistics, ending pet homelessness is an achievable goal and everyone can be part of the solution. People Saving Pets, a new social movement created by PetSmart Charities, is dedicated to saving homeless pets and suggests five simple actions that anyone can take— today—to savelives. 1. Adopt: If you have the time and resources to care for a pet, choose to adopt instead of buying your pet from a breeder or pet store. Have your heart set on a par- ticular breed? Nearly 25 percent of animals living in shelters are purebreds, and many rescue groups are dedicated to specific breeds. 2, Spay and Neuter: If you’re already planning to adopt or currently own a pet, have your pet spayed/neutered. It’s one of the best ways to reduce overcrowding in shelters and lower euthanasia rates, yet 35 percent of the cats and dogsliving in U.S. households have not had this simple and safe procedure. Cats and dogs can be spayed/neutered as early as 8 weeks old, and studies have shown that the procedure can provide significant health benefits and reduce behavioral problems. Furthermore, price doesn’t have to keep you from doing the right thing for your pet. Certain clinics will provide you with spay/neuter services at a reduced cost—sometimes even for free. To find one nearby, check out the People Saving Pets clinic locator tool at www.peoplesavingpets.org. Helping save the lives of home- less dogs and cats can be easier than many people realize. 3. Volunteer: Can’t welcome a new pet into your family just yet? Volunteer at your local shelter! From providing playtime for pets to helping out at adoption events or becoming a foster pet parent, your time will make a huge difference in saving pets. 4. Donate: Shelters rely heavily on donations. A small gift can go a long way. If you can’t donate money, household items such as cleaning products, garbage bags andold blankets and towels are also welcome. 5. Share: Perhaps the easiest way to help save homelesspets is to spread the word. Let your friends, family and co-workers know that you're passionate about helping animals and how they can be part of the solution. Use social media like Facebook and Twitter to share information and opportunities to help pets with your networks. At www.peoplesavingpets.org, you can find tools and resources to help save pets’ lives, such as an adoptable pet locator and a lowcost spay/neuterclinic locator, and find opportunities to volunteer and donateto local animal welfare organizations. You can also join the conversation on Facebook.
