Why do dogs end up in shelters?

WHY DO DOGS END UP IN SHELTERS?

Top 10 reasons, according to the American Dog Owners Association :

1. Moving
2. Landlord not allowing pets
3. Too many animals in household
4. Cost of pet maintenance
5. Guardian having personal problems
6. Inadequate facilities
7. No homes available for litter mates
8. Having no time for pet
9. Pet illness(es)
10. Biting

CHARACTERISTICS OF DOGS BEING RELINQUISHED TO POUNDS:

• Majority of the surrendered dogs (47.7%) were between 5 mos. and 3 yrs. of age
• Majority of dogs (37.1%) had been owned from 7 mos. to 1 yr.
• Approximately half of the dogs (42.8%) surrendered were not neutered
• Many of the dogs relinquished (33%) had not been to a veterinarian
• Dogs relinquished from friends (31.4%) were relinquished in higher numbers than from any other sources

Facts & Figures

• 112 million pet dogs and cats are owned by Americans.
• 92% of American pet guardians display pictures of their pets at home or work.
• 53% believe their animals would risk their lives to save their guardians.
  --Time Magazine, 6/7/99