It has gone on much too long. For many years we have routinely abused those creatures that give us love, kindness, protection and companionship. Only those among us who purposely turn away or are cruel do not understand the terror and horror we inflict on our "pets."
On a routine basis municipal animal control services and many privately run humane societies euthanize thousands of dogs and cats. The euthanized animals are often the lucky ones. They do not have to lie wounded, starved and abandoned on our urban highways and rural roads. And do not place any blame on the humane societies and
SPCA groups for their euthanasia policies. They are the caring groups. They do the hard and grinding work which we, out of our own greed and slovenliness have created. They deal with the problems, which we the public, have caused.
The very name "Animal Control" is a misnomer. We human animals are the ones who should be controlled. We are the real problem. But again, like in so many other matters, we create the problem and then rename it to shift the blame. When will we ever learn?
At this moment, every animal shelter, public and private, is overflowing with puppies and kittens. Hand made signs and posters dot the roads and highways offering "free kittens." What a nightmare and it is repeated every day every year for far too long.
What is to be done? First, never ever obtain a dog or cat or any other creature unless it can be well cared for. On a personal basis, many years ago when I was the President of the Humane Society of North Texas (the largest animal intake group in the southwest) I had neither a dog nor a cat. I was too busy, too much away from home to take care of one. Later, my schedule changed and my German Shepherds, Labradors and small mixed breeds have all been wonderful additions to my life.
Never obtain a dog or a cat from a breeder or pet store however well intentioned you or they may be. As long as so many are lost abandoned and euthanized, there is no need for any more, whether they be pure or mixed breed.
Never let your own dog or cat breed. It may be cute to see the offspring, but the outcome is often tragic. There is no assurance of a "good home" to place the puppies and kittens with. Many good homes split apart, move and can ill afford long term care.
If you truly want a dog or a cat and can supply long- term care, go only to a recognized humane society or municipal animal shelter. Thousands of animals daily wait out their days for a decent home.
If you have a pet already make sure it is spayed or neutered immediately by a licensed veterinarian. No more litters! Enough already! Report animal cruelty immediately to the police or animal control. The recent Texas Legislature has made animal cruelty a felony.
Young children and animals do not always go together. The children are often too rough, unknowing and unaware of animal welfare. And parents often overreact when a child is bitten or jumped at by a dog.
Care for those animals already in our midst. Do not bring any more into an inhospitable world.
Allan Saxe serves as
political analyst for WBAP News/Talk 820 and writes an opinion column for the Star-Telegram.
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