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Are you concerned about the high rate of euthanasia for central Indiana's companion animals?
“I’m
just one person—what can I do about it?”
·
Adopt
from a shelter or rescue group
Many wonderful
pets can be found in shelters. While
some do have medical or behavioral issues, the majority are healthy, happy pets
just waiting for someone to love. If you go to a "backyard breeder" or pet store, you
may get a dog with papers, but that does not guarantee the quality of a dog.
If you want a purebreed, shelters often have them available, and you can
also contact a breed rescue group. If you choose to buy from a breeder, do your
research to find a responsible breeder. Don't support puppy mills.
·
Spay or
Neuter your pets
Accidents can happen to even the most responsible pet owner. There are health benefits to spaying and neutering, and you
won't produce more unwanted litters.
·
Adopt an
older pet
This reduces the demand and market for puppies and kittens.
Older pets make great companions, and are usually housebroken and calmer
than younger ones. Adult dogs and cats adopted from ARPO are current on
vaccinations and already spayed/ neutered.
·
Take
responsibility for your pet for life
Sometimes financial and personal issues make it difficult to care for our pets.
But they are our responsibility, and when we make the decision to acquire
a pet we make a commitment for the life of the animal.
Even if your pet is fortunate enough to find a new home, that's one less
spot for another homeless animal, one more dead dog or cat.
·
Support
animal welfare groups
Whether you can donate time, money, a foster home; it all helps to provide care
for homeless pets awaiting permanent homes.
Alliance
for Responsible Pet Ownership
P.O. Box 6385
Fishers, IN 46038
317-774-8292
adoptarpo@hotmail.com
www.adoptarpo.org
©ARPO 2000