Animal shelter

From ArticleWorld

Animal Shelters go by several different names and the policies can vary greatly, however, the goal of all of them is to protect and care for animals until a suitable home can be found. Formerly known as pounds or dog pounds, animal shelters may either be governmental or private organizations. Surrendered, abandoned and stray pets are housed and cared for until the owner reclaims it, an adoptive home can be found or it can be placed with another organization. If none of these solutions are met, or if the animal has health or behavior problems, it will be euthanized. Over crowding in a shelter is another common reason for euthanizing an animal. No-kill shelters care for pets for the remainder of their lives if no home is found. Even at no-kill shelters, euthanization is still a possibility if over crowding becomes too much of a problem or the animal has severe health or behavior issues. Animal sanctuaries care for animals for the remainder of their natural lives, often without any real effort to find them new homes. Rescue groups exist for most types of animals as well. Some, like the Greyhound Rescue groups, focus on a particular breed, while others like Rabbit Rescue are less specific.

Public services

Animal shelters and other related organizations serve and educate the public as well. Animal control organizations enforce animal related ordinances. Animal shelters spend a great deal of time educating potential pet owners about the responsibilities and commitment needed to care for a pet for the length of its life. Many shelters offer low cost, or even no cost spaying and neutering, in an effort to control population and unwanted pets. Some also offer classes in behavior training and provide refuge for pets of abused spouses, in times of need.

Getting Involved

Anyone can start an animal shelter. For a person with the time, commitment and desire to care for homeless animals, there are many resources available to assist with getting started. Volunteering at a shelter or Humane Society can be a good way to get involved and is a good idea before committing to the responsibility of running a shelter of ones own. There is always a great need for volunteers whether a person has a little or a lot of time to invest.