The number of upset and bewildered animals that owners abandon in shelters is astounding.
According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), approximately 6.5 million pets are abandoned in the US every year, with dogs making up a significant portion of this number. Fortunately, half of these dogs are adopted, but the other half are left to spend their final years alone in cages or are euthanized to make room for more abandoned animals that have a higher chance of being adopted.
Despite having better living conditions than stray animals on the streets, shelter animals often do not receive the care, affection, and exercise they need. These dogs come in various shapes and sizes, making them suitable for different families.
A photo of a woman working at the High Plains Humane Society (HPHS) in Portales, New Mexico, went viral as it depicted a dog waiting to be adopted. The woman appeared inconsolable, and the image touched the hearts of animal lovers worldwide.
The despondent dog portrays the feeling of loneliness that shelter animals experience when surrounded by strangers. She appears to be crying while clutching the cage bars and facing the camera.
Despite the fact that animal experts pointed out that dogs do not cry when distressed, millions of people who were moved by her suffering shared her picture.
Due to the overwhelming adoption requests, a compassionate family adopted the pitiful dog within a day, and her tears were replaced with an ecstatic smile.
The shelter’s release of before-and-after adoption pictures of a puppy gave hope that abandoned animals could find loving homes.
It is crucial to remember that taking care of a dog is a significant responsibility and should not be taken lightly. No animal should ever suffer the pain of abandonment.