# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
How to help animals in shelters and rescues

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Want to help animals in shelters? Here are a few ways you can help animal shelters and rescues that do so much for animals, people and your community

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
By ASPCA President & CEO Matt Bershadker
Many people think animal rescue mostly involves adopting homeless animals. But while the 3.2 million shelter adoptions taking place each year are a critical part of helping these vulnerable animals survive and thrive, that's certainly not the only way to make a lifesaving difference.

Animal welfare organizations, for example, take many different approaches depending on their reach and resources, including relocating animals to places where their chances for adoption are higher, rehabilitating victims of cruelty and neglect to make them more adoptable and helping low-income pet owners keep their pets by making veterinary services more affordable and accessible.

But individuals and entire communities can also impact at-risk animals in ways that don't require a permanent commitment, so please consider and share some of the wide-ranging ideas below to help animals in need.

1. Fostering

Fostering animals -working with local shelters to take these animals into your home and care for them on a temporary basis-serves many goals. It eases the animal care burden on shelters, helps socialize young animals, protects animals from potential diseases and stress and exposes them to new networks of potential adopters. Fostering is also a good way to try out pet ownership without the life-long commitment.

Fostering is especially important during kitten season, the annual high-breeding period that runs through spring and summer, and even individual impact could be huge. We estimate that one foster home could potentially save 20 kitten lives over the course of a single season.

Each shelter may have unique fostering procedures and expectations, so ask about their programs in advance to ensure a good match for your situation.

2. Volunteering

If you have free time during the week or weekend, ask your local shelter how you can help. Meaningful support can include anything from walking and reading to animals, to cleaning cages and helping with office work, social media and adoption drives. Many shelters need help with adoption events they host on weekends. Children above a certain age can also volunteer their time individually or as part of community organizations-animals will always appreciate extra affection.

3. Donating Supplies

Whether your local shelter is large or small, staff there will appreciate contributions of vital supplies including food, towels, toys, blankets, newspapers and crates. Call ahead (and check their social media sites) to discover what items are most in demand so you're offering the greatest assistance given their specific and seasonal needs.

4. Advocating for Animals

According to a survey we recently published, local animal shelters and rescue groups are increasing their use of social media to promote their animals and mission, and seeing higher levels of community support as a result. You too can also harness your own social platforms to be an effective advocate for animals, shelters, and animal welfare issues.

Take inspiration from this month's designation as Adopt a Shelter Dog Month and find a dog (or cat) available for adoption at your local shelter (it may already be one of the more than 500 groups participating in our #FindYourFido national campaign). Act as his or her publicist by posting photos, descriptions, and videos.

You can also learn about key local, state and federal animal welfare issues and legislation by visiting our ASPCA Advocacy Center, where you'll find ways to support measures that help at-risk animals survive and thrive, as well as fight actions and proposals that put them in further jeopardy. There may even be important animal welfare proposals on the ballot in your district during the election on November 6.

5. Financial Support

Because caring for homeless animals can quickly drain a shelter's limited resources, local shelters rely on their communities for financial support. You can help by donating funds, hosting a funding drive or turning celebrations and events into charitable opportunities for local animals. Many people support local shelters and animal welfare organizations by asking for donations in lieu of birthday or other gifts.

Local and national organizations serve very different purposes and have different capabilities, so investigate each and offer support in a way that has the most meaning to you.

The Bottom Line

Approximately 6.5 million companion animals enter U.S. animal shelters nationwide every year, of whom approximately 1.5 million are euthanized. That number is thankfully dropping, but at-risk animals in your community still need your help. Every act of fostering, volunteering, advocacy and support can make a difference, so whether adoption is in the realm of possibility or out of the question, I hope you connect with a commitment that's right for you and best for an animal in need.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Five Ways to Help Local Homeless Animals When Adoption Is Not an Option

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Just because you can't commit to adopting a pet, doesn't mean you can't make a difference for homeless animals. See our list of five ways you can still make a difference for homeless and at-risk animals today!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
7 Ways You Can Help End Pet Homelessness

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Millions of pets end up in shelters every year across the United States. Being a pet-friendly community starts with working to end pet homelessness.

# data[].attributes.headline
Teens group together to save animals after hurricane

# data[].attributes.subject
Teens group together to save animals after hurricane

# data[].attributes.headline
State of Pet Homelessness Project reveals 1 in 3 pets are in need of a home

# data[].attributes.subject
State of Pet Homelessness Project reveals 1 in 3 pets are in need of a home

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
With over 3.2 million cats and dogs entering shelters each year, animal homelessness is a heartbreaking reality that affects many. The statistics and facts surrounding this issue are pretty surprising, and the stories of those affected are sadly even more devastating. Animal homelessness is a growing problem that can be seen in cities, rural areas, and even in animal sanctuaries.

A lack of neutering or spaying, in addition to issues such as illegal puppy mills and overcrowded shelters, are a number of factors contributing to animal homelessness - and the need for solutions is greater than ever. With the right measures in place, it's possible to reduce the number of homeless animals and ensure that those who are homeless receive the care and attention they need. But it may be a problem that is rectified later rather than sooner. That being stated, let's take a look at some of the shocking statistics regarding animal homelessness.

The 10 Animal Homelessness Statistics

1. 40% of dogs adopted are from an animal shelter, rescue group, and in some cases, pet stores.

2. According to the ASPCA, the number of cats and dogs entering shelters annually is around 6.3 million.

3. Only 2% of stray cats are spayed or neutered.

4. In 2021, roughly 83% of the 4 million cats and dogs that entered US shelters were saved.

5. Most animal shelters will wait at least 72 hours from when the animal is brought in before euthanizing it.

6. In no-kill shelters, about 90% the dogs and cats brought in are actually rehomed and adopted.

7. It's estimated that the number of animals picked up by animal control costs about $1-$2 billion each year.

8. Surprisingly, only about 52% of shelters in the US are actually no-kill shelters.

9. Close to 10% of shelter animals are eventually reunited with their owners.

10. Mississippi holds the top spot when it comes to animal shelter killings, with a whopping 18% of animals being euthanized every year.

General Facts About Animal Homelessness

(HumanePro)

In 2021, a study by the humane society concluded that 40% of dogs are adopted from animal shelters, rescue groups, and pet stores. This suggests that these organizations have been doing an incredible job of providing people with a pet to join their family. The study also indicates that more and more people are coming to the realization that adopting a pet is the more responsible and humane way to bring home a pet.

(HumanePro)

There has been a decline in the number of dogs entering shelters, going from 3.9 million to 3.1 million. It seems that more pet owners are taking responsibility for their animals, and that the efforts of animal welfare organizations are beginning to pay off.

(Alley Cat Allies)

One of the main reasons for the overpopulation of cats (and subsequently stray cats) is the fact that only 2% of stray cats are spayed or neutered. Also, studies show that a whopping 81% of Americans think they're leaving a cat outside is better than having it put down. This attitude can lead to cats being abandoned, which can only exacerbate the already serious issue of overpopulation.

(Best Friends)

Unfortunately, roughly 350,000 of these animals also died. So, it appears that the US animal welfare system still needs to be improved and better monitored or given more funding and resources to reduce the death rate and increase the number of animals being saved.

Common Stats On US-Based Shelters

(Animal Legal & Historical Center)

To ensure that each animal is given a chance of being adopted or the owner recovers their missing pet, most animal shelters will wait at least 72 hours from when the animal is brought in before euthanizing it. This also allows the shelter time to assess the animal's condition and ensure it is healthy enough to be put up for adoption.

(Animal Humane Society)

Unfortunately, roughly 10% are euthanized - and it's usually ones that are sick or older. This indicates that the no-kill shelters are taking in animals that may be harder to adopt out, such as those with disabilities or terminal illnesses.

(Tennessee Offices of Research and Education Accountability)

This is regardless of whether the animals are euthanized or sheltered. Most shelters get their funding from the government, though many raise money through fundraising events, donations, and crowdfunding. In many cases, it appears that the public is keen to get involved and help out with resource procurement.

Percentages of Animals Being Euthanized

(Veterinarians.org)

Unfortunately, many shelters don't have the financial resources to create life-saving programs for these animals. This is a major issue that needs to be addressed in order to ensure the safety of animals and prevent them from being subjected to unnecessary euthanasia.

(Midwest Animal Welfare Society)

Unfortunately, animal rights groups state that about 40% of shelter animals are eventually put down. This suggests that much work needs to be done in order to improve the animal rights situation in the US.

(Veterinarians.org)

Each year, nearly 65,000 animals enter Mississippi shelters. Unfortunately, many of these animals are not given the chance of adoption and are put down instead. It's really tragic that so many animals are needlessly euthanized despite the efforts of animal welfare organizations. Perhaps efforts are in place for Mississippi to take the initiative to reduce these numbers and provide more homes for these animals.

FAQs About Animal Homelessness and Adoption

What is the difference between homeless and abandoned animals?

It's quite simple. Homeless animals are those who have been left on the streets or in shelters without a home or family. These animals often suffer from neglect and abuse and can be at risk of disease, starvation, and even death. Abandoned animals, on the other hand, are those that have been intentionally left behind by their owners. These animals may have been surrendered to a shelter, or simply left to fend for themselves.

What is the big difference between animal shelters and rescue groups?

The main difference is that with animal shelters, state and local governments are responsible for taking in homeless animals and providing them with food, medical care, and a safe place to stay. Rescue groups, on the other hand, are typically run by volunteers and focus on rescuing animals who are in danger or at risk of being euthanized due to overcrowding at shelters. Rescue groups will often even foster animals in their own homes and work to find permanent homes for the animals they rescue.

What is the global impact of animal homelessness & adoption?

The impact of animal homelessness and adoption is really far-reaching, more than many people realize. Animal homelessness is a major problem in many parts of the world, and it can lead to increased levels of disease, suffering, and even death for the animals involved. The worst part about it is that homeless animals are also more likely to be involved in accidents or become victims of animal cruelty. When you adopt a homeless animal, you can help to reduce the number of homeless animals and can also provide a much-needed loving home for an animal that may not survive otherwise.

What are the benefits of adopting a homeless animal?

Adopting a homeless animal comes with a number of benefits. Not only does it provide a much-needed home for an animal in need, but it also helps to reduce the number of homeless animals in the world. It can also provide companionship and love for the adopter, as well as the satisfaction of knowing that you have helped to save a life. Studies show that animals can help lower cortisol levels and improve overall happiness and quality of life. Additionally, adopting a homeless animal can be much cheaper than buying a pet from a breeder or local pet store, as many rescue groups and shelters offer discounted adoption fees.

What's the process for adopting a homeless animal?

The process for adopting a homeless animal varies depending on the organization or individual you're working with. Generally, the process begins with filling out an application and providing proof of identification. The organization or individual will then review the application and arrange for a home/shelter visit to ensure that the animal will be living in a safe and suitable environment. Once the visit is approved, the adoption process will be finalized, and the animal can be taken home.

What are the costs associated with adopting a homeless animal?

Again, it really depends on where you're adopting the animal from. Adoption costs for dogs and cats can range anywhere from $50 to about $500. Rare or exotic breeds will typically cost more, and puppies are usually more expensive. But adoption fees for homeless animals are actually much lower than buying a pet from a breeder or pet store. The adoption fee may also pay for vaccinations, spaying or neutering, and other medical care that the animal may need.

What's the best way to find an animal to adopt?

The best way to find an animal to adopt is to contact your local animal shelter or rescue group. The Humane Society and ASPCA, in addition to many shelters and rescue groups, have websites where you can actually view available animals and find out more information about the whole adoption process. Also, many shelters and rescue groups will have adoption events (like the fundraisers mentioned earlier) where you can meet the animals in person and get to know them before becoming a new pet parent.

How can you help homeless animals when you can't adopt one?

There are many different ways to help out shelter pets. One of the best ways is to volunteer your time at a local shelter. Volunteering is a great way to lessen the workload of shelter staff, help animals in need, and get free cuddles. You can provide love and care to the animals, help with general cleaning and maintenance, walk dogs, and more. You may even be able to help with adoption events and fundraising activities, which can be pretty fun and a great way to socialize.

You can also simply donate to your local shelter or rescue groups. Donations are used to provide food, bedding, medical care, and other essential items to the animals. Consider donating items such as towels, beds, medical stuff, blankets, toys, and treats. If you don't have anything to donate, you can always donate money, which will be used to help cover the costs of running the shelter.

Fostering is another great way to help shelter pets - unlike adoption, it's free. Many shelters are always looking for people to foster pets until they can find a permanent home. Fostering a pet is a great way to provide the animal with the love and care they need while they wait to find their forever home. Your fostering time can range anywhere from a week or two to a few months coming depending on your preference.

And finally, you can help out shelter pets by just spreading the word. Talking to your friends, co-workers, and family about the importance of adopting from a shelter instead of buying from a pet store can help make a difference locally. You can also share posts or articles about the shelter on social media or participate in fundraising activities to help raise awareness.

How can you start an animal rescue shelter?

Before starting an animal rescue shelter, there are a few important steps to take. Probably the first step that you need to take is to decide how big you want the rescue center to be. Will it be your home or a rented space? Next, you'll need to create a business plan.

This plan should include information about the type of animals the rescue will accept, the services the rescue will provide, the costs associated with running the shelter, and all local laws or regulations that apply to animal shelters. Next, you need to actually set up your space and then find some volunteers and staff to help you run the place. Volunteers can help with marketing, feeding, and cleaning the animals, while staff can provide more specialized care.

Conclusion

Animal homelessness is a growing problem. The number of animals entering shelters has increased in recent years and the number of former pets that are not reunited with their owners continues to increase, though steadily. Efforts to decrease the number of homeless animals and euthanizations seem to be something that needs to be addressed on both a state and national level.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
10 Shocking Animal Homelessness Statistics & Facts (2024 Update)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
With over 3.2 million cats and dogs entering shelters each year, animal homelessness is a heartbreaking reality that affects many. The statistics and facts surrounding this issue are pretty surprising, and the stories of those affected are sadly even more devastating. Animal homelessness is a growing problem that can be seen in cities, rural areas, ...

# data[].attributes.headline
10 WAYS KIDS LIKE YOU CAN HELP ANIMALS IN SHELTERS

# data[].attributes.subject
10 WAYS KIDS LIKE YOU CAN HELP ANIMALS IN SHELTERS

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Did you know that you can help animals no matter how old you are? Take Sydney and Alexandria, for example. They're only 12, and they've been donating their time to helping animals for years! There are millions of dogs, cats, bunnies, and other animals in need of homes all over the U.S., and there are so many ways for you to help them.

Here are Sydney and Alexandria's top 10 ways for kids like you to help animals in shelters:

1. Educate your friends and family.

Teach people how important it is to spay and neuter their dogs and cats. Around 70,000 puppies and kittens are born in the U.S. every day, and there are nowhere near enough good homes for all of them. Spaying and neutering can help end the homeless-animal crisis!

2. Ask for birthday donations.

For Sydney and Alexandria's 10 th birthday, they decided that there was nothing they wanted more than to make animals in need happy. They asked their friends and family to give them donations for their local animal shelter instead of birthday presents, and they raised enough money to buy warm beds for so that they wouldn't have to sleep on the cold concrete floor.

3. Raise money for animals.

Head over to a local business, like a grocery or hardware store, with your parents and ask if you can hold a bake sale in front of the building. Once you get the OK, hang signs up in your neighborhood a couple of weeks in advance letting people know when, where, and why you'll be holding the bake sale. Be sure to make lots of yummy vegan treats and create signs showing the prices of the goodies.

Ask your parents to post about your bake sale on Facebook to make sure that lots of people will know about it! During the sale, make sure you have some cash with you to give people change and plenty of napkins and bags so customers can take their treats to go. And of course, be sure to put out a donation collection can. (Sydney and Alexandria have held many bake sales for animals, and they say that people often give a donation without even taking a treat!)

4. Volunteer at your local animal shelter.

You may need your parents' help with this one, since some shelters require that volunteers be a certain age unless they ' re with a parent. If you find a shelter that will let you volunteer, you can walk , clean up after the animals, refill water bowls, and give out toys and treats. Even just being there to pet cats and scratch dogs behind the ears will help them feel less lonely.

5. Adopt animals from shelters.

Instead of buying them from pet stores or breeders, be sure to always adopt animals from local shelters. Every year, more than 6 million animals are taken to shelters, and about half are euthanized because there aren't enough good homes for them. If you have friends who are ready to take good care of a dog or cat (or any animal), urge them to adopt from a shelter instead of buying from a breeder or a pet store.

6. Set up a donation drive.

Ask your teacher or school principal if you can lead a donation drive at your school for an animal shelter. You and your parents can write a letter telling your school officials how you plan on doing it and why it's important to collect items that animals in shelters need, like food, toys, leashes, beds, and blankets. You can ask your classmates and their friends and family to donate. And get a group of your own friends together to make colorful posters so you can spread the word about the donation drive!

7. Foster an animal.

Ask your parents to help you foster a homeless dog or cat. There are so many animals in need of a safe temporary place to hang out while they recover from an illness or injury, and some puppies and kittens need a quiet place to grow, away from the busy animal shelter. If you can commit your time and resources to fostering an animal, you'll be helping two animals-the one you take into your home and another one who will get a place in the shelter.

It can be hard to say goodbye to an animal you've been fostering once they're adopted into a permanent home and no longer need you to take care of them. But the good news is that because of you, an animal got a second chance at life in a loving home, and that's pretty awesome! Fostering an animal is a big commitment, so you'll need to ask your parents to help while you're at school. With their mom's help, Sydney and Alexandria have fostered more than 25 animals. If they can do it, so can you!

8. Speak up.

When you see animals in trouble, try to help them. If you see a dog chained to a tree every day when you walk home from school, ask your parents to call your local animal control officers and tell them why you're worried about the situation. If you ever see kids being mean to stray cats (or anyone hurting any animals) stand up for them if you can. If it's not safe for you to get involved, then ask a parent or trusted teacher to help.

9. Be kind to animals of all ages.

Elderly dogs and cats may sleep most of the day and not want to play very much, but they need love and care, too. Sometimes, people are more interested in puppies and kittens because they're more fun and playful, and older dogs and cats get ignored or neglected. Make it a point to give some extra attention to the older animals at your local shelter whenever you stop by!

10. Spread the word.

Ask your parents to post a photo or a video of a dog or who needs a home on their Instagram or Facebook pages. Many shelters have fliers you can download and hang in local coffee shops and other businesses. If not, just make your own! Along with pictures of the animals, include their age and gender, whether or not they get along with other animals and young kids, and any health problems they have. Also, don't forget to put in the shelter's contact information for anyone who is interested in . All it takes is one kind person to see your flier and decide to adopt!

Are you ready to be a hero for animals in shelters, just like Sydney and Alexandria?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Did you know that you can help animals no matter how old you are? Take Sydney and Alexandria, for example. They're only 12, and they've been donating their time ...

# data[].attributes.headline
6 Ways Your Class Can Help Homeless Animals

# data[].attributes.subject
6 Ways Your Class Can Help Homeless Animals

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
No matter what age your students are, learning how more than 6 million animals end up in shelters across the country every year-and why they face an uncertain future-can lead students to make lifesaving decisions in the future. Whether it's talking to their parents about adopting only from shelters and rescues (and never buying any animal from a pet store or breeder) or volunteering to walk, groom, or play with a lonely dog or cat, every student can be a hero for animals in shelters.

Teaching kids why they should care about others and make kinder choices to reduce suffering is an invaluable lesson that can help your students realize their place in your community and our world. Empower them with these fun activities:

Make (and Deliver) Gifts

What can you make with pieces of old fabric, catnip, and yarn? Catnip toys that cats adore! You probably already have most of these items in your spare closet or junk drawer at home, and you can pick up catnip on the cheap online or at your local pet-supply store (just avoid Petco, PetSmart, and any other store that sells live animals).

DIY dog treats are also easy to make and can help students learn math, measuring, and home economics skills. Have your class whip up some heart-shaped doggy biscuits with an inexpensive cookie cutter (you can find them at any craft store). We love these three-ingredient treats.

There are also many DIY dog toys that are a snap to make-like these braided toys made of old T-shirts. The best part? Dogs in animal shelters will be grateful for every single second of work, and they'll show it!

When you're done DIY-ing it up in class, deliver the treats or toys yourself or do it as a class-and be sure to snap lots of photos of the animals as they enjoy the goods. Post the photos in the classroom to keep your students thinking about what they've done to make the world a kinder place.

Tell Your City to Make a BIG Change

Have high school students who are eager to make a difference for animals? The most effective way to help homeless animals is to prevent them -and asking your city to enact a mandatory spay and neuter law is a great way to do that.

Explain the importance of spaying and neutering, check out the current legislation in your area, and work with your students to draft letters to local decisionmakers. Here's an to working on lifesaving legislation.

Need more guidance? TeachKind is here to help! Just e-mail us at [email protected] .

Hold a Blanket Drive

These are popular around the holidays, but shouldn't every day be a day of giving? Your students can play Santa any day of the year by providing vulnerable animals with warmth and comfort. The world can always use a little more of those. And this activity is really easy-all you need is a box. Then have your students ask their parents for old T-shirts, blankets, or towels to donate to your local open-admission animal shelter (a shelter that accepts every animal and never turns animals away for lack of space).

Be sure to lead by example by donating a few old things of your own to get started.

Take a Field Trip

After using TeachKind's lesson plans focusing on adopting and never buying companion animals as well as the importance of taking proper care of them, contact your local open-admission shelter and try to set up a trip for your students to visit it.

This may seem like a sad lesson, but it's an important one. Seeing the animals firsthand can make a lifelong impression on your students. When their family decides to add a new cat or dog or when they graduate from college and get their first apartment, they'll think about the animals they saw in the shelter and be more likely to make the compassionate choice and adopt a homeless cat or dog instead of buying one from a pet store or breeder.

This is one school lesson that can truly save lives.

Host an Animal Shelter Worker

Most kids care about animals-and they want to help them. We bet you have more than one student who wants to be a veterinarian or a marine biologist, and teaching them how to help animals in their own community is a great first step.

Shelter workers do more than just play with cute dogs and cats-they work on socializing animals who come from abusive situations, counsel guardians on how to take better care of their companions, screen potential adopters, coordinate fundraisers, and more. Younger students will love hearing about how to be better friends to cats, dogs, and other animals, and older students can learn about the importance of cruelty case investigations, humane laws, open-door policies, spaying and neutering, and more.

Extra Credit

Work with your local animal shelter to get your students trained to volunteer (each shelter has different requirements, so be sure to check in advance), and then offer students extra credit for volunteering throughout the school year. Giving awards such as "Hero for Homeless Cats" or "I'm a Dog's Best Friend" is a great incentive, too, and can get your kids excited to make a difference.

Have some teacher friends who may be interested in these ideas?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
6 Ways Your Class Can Help Homeless Animals | PETA

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
No matter what age your students are, learning how more than 6 million animals end up in shelters across the country every year-and why they face an uncertain future-can lead students to make lifesaving decisions in the future.

# data[].attributes.headline
How this teen is saving homeless animals one bow tie at a time

# data[].attributes.subject
How this teen is saving homeless animals one bow tie at a time

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Saving the lives of homeless animals is something many of us are passionate about, including us at NBCUniversal with our 9th annual "Clear The Shelters" nationwide pet adoption and donation campaign.

But for 16-year-old Sir Darius Brown, it's become his life's mission, or as he calls it, his PAW-SOME mission.

Sir Darius got his start after learning about hundreds of dogs displaced from their homes in Texas and Puerto Rico that were transferred to shelters in the northeast after hurricanes Harvey and Irma in 2017. He knew right then he needed to do something to help.

So he turned his passion for sewing, which he learned from his sister, to create bow ties for shelter pets. His creation quickly turned into a thriving company he founded called " Beaux & Paws," where he is also CEO.

" Beaux & Paws" is the company where I handcraft bow ties for dogs and cats to help them be noticeable and adoptable and find everlasting homes," Sir Darius said. "I believe a bow tie is a symbol. It gives them a form of importance. It's going to attract people to want to adopt a dog or a cat."

"What a wonderful young man," said Liz Morgan, director of Montclair Township Animal Shelter in New Jersey. "People might walk past a dog that's middle-aged, but with a bow tie, you have to look at her."

For every bow tie that is purchased, Sir Darius donates a bow tie to a shelter pet.

"Every single bow tie that I make is personal," Sir Darius said. "It's not just any bow tie you can buy at a local store. When it's handmade, it creates that bond."

This year, Sir Darius was selected as the Clear The Shelters ambassador and Hill's Pet Nutrition shelter advocate to further his goal of finding loving, forever homes for every shelter pet. In fact, he's so dedicated to his mission that he created a special bow tie just for Clear The Shelters.

"I created this bow tie for Clear the Shelters because not only is it really cute, but I wanted to spread the word," he said.

Since its inception in 2015, Clear The Shelters has helped more than 860,000 pets find new homes. For 2023 Clear The Shelters, which runs Aug. 1 through Aug. 31, we want to reach a new milestone with the help of Sir Darius.

"For this year's Clear the Shelters, we want to help adopt our one-millionth pet," Sir Darius said. "People should want to come together to uplift and inspire others to adopt and to really help us reach our goal."

To date, Sir Darius has donated over 5,000 bow ties and helped raise more than $800,000 for animal shelters.

"I don't think any of us ever thought that it would get to the magnitude that it currently is," sister and co-founder, Dazhai Brown said. "I'm so glad that it is Sir Darius that has been able to be an advocate for shelter animals and to promote adopting, not shopping."

"My mom and my sister are very proud of me," he said. "If it wasn't for them, this initiative wouldn't have come close to being possible."

If you would like to purchase a "Clear The Shelters" bow tie, check out his website.
To learn more about Clear The Shelters 2023 and search for adoptable pets in your area, visit cleartheshelters.com. You can also donate to your local animal shelters and rescue groups by visiting clearthesheltersfund.org.

Follow Clear The Shelters on Twitter and Instagram to stay up to date on this year's pet adoption and donation news:

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
How this teen is saving homeless animals one bow tie at a time

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Sir Darius Brown loves animals so much, he created a company to save their lives by making bow ties for shelter pets.

# data[].attributes.headline
Avery Sontheimer has raised over $17,000 for animal shelters across the country

# data[].attributes.subject
Avery Sontheimer has raised over $17,000 for animal shelters across the country

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
PETA Awards Teen Who Raised $17,000 for Animal Shelters

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Despite battling cancer, this 14-year-old has dedicated her time and energy to raising money for animals. Her work is an inspiration.

# data[].attributes.headline
Ayna Agarwal, 16, recently founded SPOT (Stop Pet Overpopulation Together) Globally to bolster efforts to improve animal welfare. 

# data[].attributes.subject
Ayna Agarwal, 16, recently founded SPOT (Stop Pet Overpopulation Together) Globally to bolster efforts to improve animal welfare. 

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Ayna Agarwal, 16, recently founded SPOT (Stop Pet Overpopulation Together) Globally to bolster efforts to improve animal welfare. Agarwal, a junior at Edison, New Jersey's Wardlaw-Hartridge School, spoke to WKCD about her organization's work around the world.
"SPOT Globally is a nonprofit that was established less than a year ago. It connects developing nations all over the world, including Thailand, Italy, South Africa, Philippines, Nepal, Mexico, Lebanon, Dominican Republic, Colombia, Cook Islands, and India. We dedicate our work to really improving the lives of stray and homeless animals.

"There are two to three hundred people, at least, involved in SPOT Globally. There are a lot of adults involved, but the adults are more supporters. It's the youth that are actually going out and doing the fundraising, and actually running the entire program. They look at our website for facts and they ask for our brochures. It's a big network and a chain of people.

"Our main initiative is spaying and neutering animals. Our 12 project sites all over the world are where the animal overpopulation crisis is at its peak right now, where the problem is most prevalent. I contacted legitimate organizations that either already have a spaying and neutering program intact, or that at the moment just work with stray animals in general. If they don't have a spaying and neutering program, I help them establish one.
Filming and Fundraising
"A lot of our work is educating the public about capturing strays and spaying and neutering them, which is sterilization. I go and I travel to these project sites every year. Last summer I traveled to India and donated a lump sum of money and my time as an advocate for the cause.

"This year, we are creating brochures, pamphlets and presentations for the project sites so they can use them in their country to hand out to their native people."
Paws, Claws, and Leadership
"A lot of the work has to do with spaying and neutering, and that is straight up money. We do bring supplies, like Frontline, which is a flea and insect repellent, and some surgical supplies, but overall we're looking for donations. To ask for those donations we are creating a documentary. It's going to be online and we're going to be distributing it free. I'm going to be working on the documentary in Bangkok, highlighting the shelter, the work that we do, and certain stories. It's going to be an ongoing documentary with all the project sites. So that will serve as a major form of educational advocacy.

"A lot of the people in our communities don't know what spaying and neutering is, they don't know about the overpopulation endemic all over the world, they just don't know what SPOT Globally does."
Saving Lives, Fighting Stigma
"We also run a summer camp/seminar called Paws and Claws targeted for kids in grades three through five. I created this initiative last year. It's a weeklong summer camp, and was very, very successful. The kids learn about what they can do, animal welfare, overpopulation and protection in their community. We base it completely around service projects and service learning. It's interactive, hands-on learning from the animals.

"We've created a program for high schoolers called the High School Leaders Program. Participants get toolkits with stickers, info packets, presentations they can make in their school or community, and a pledge that they can get at least 200 people to sign, about humanely treating animals. The high schoolers also get an adult mentor. The program teaches leadership skills, and helps them learn about animal welfare crisis."

"Spaying and neutering one puppy can save up to 25,000 dogs in nine years. For one kitten, it can save up to 14 million cats in nine years. One cat makes seven kittens in a litter, and that's in one heat, and those seven make another seven, etcetera. SPOT focuses the work in developing countries where they don't have the funds or facilities to run their own programs.
Learn More
"A major problem we face is a stigma toward animals and strays. The stigma in India, one of the SPOT Globally project sites, is completely insurmountable. I'm Indian. The thing that inspired me to do this work was what I had seen in India.

"Being an activist is in my blood. I grew up with animals, so something like this, very close to my heart, came naturally to me. My school and family taught me leadership and encouraged a global interconnection. I have been into service learning and activities, all my life."

Check out the website of SPOT Globally to find out how you can get involved. http://www.spotglobally.org/

Ayna was featured on the U.S. Health and Human Services Department's girlshealth.gov in 2008. http://www.girlshealth.gov/spotlight/2008/2008.11.cfm

The American Humane Association has additional information on spaying and neutering pets. http://www.americanhumane.org/protecting-animals/adoption-pet-care/care/spaying-neutering.html

Mission: Humane (a.k.a. Humane Teen) is a program of the American Humane Association geared toward teens.
http://www.humaneteen.org/?q=node/44

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Researchers from the United Negro College Fund went to West Virginia last year and asked 62 high school dropouts in the federal Job Corps program a simple, open-ended question. ¨What was it about school,¨ they wanted to know, ¨that caused you to quit?¨

# data[].attributes.headline
The Current Pet Homelessness Crisis, Explained (And 4 Ways to Help)

# data[].attributes.subject
The Current Pet Homelessness Crisis, Explained (And 4 Ways to Help)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
The Current Pet Homelessness Crisis, Explained (And 4 Ways to Help) – Woodford Humane Society

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Since 2021, animal surrender rates – and in particular, the rate of surrender of dogs and puppies – have been rising at shelters all across the country due to a complex blend of factors. In the fall of 2022, we hit a breaking point when we reached 170% of our capacity for dogs and puppies. We had dogs doubled up in kennel runs and room, dogs living in storage rooms, dogs living in hallways, dogs living in our lobby. Prior to the 2020 pandemic, owner surrenders made up 34% of our intake. By the end of 2022, it had passed 50%.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
One of the largest challenges facing animal welfare organizations today is the sheer number of animals in need of assistance. Every year, approximately 6.5 million companion animals arrive at one of the community animal shelters nationwide.

Although animals enter shelters for a variety of reasons, the majority of shelter populations are comprised of strays, rescues and surrenders:

Stray animals are often found on the streets and brought in by Good Samaritans or local law authorities. Unchecked stray populations tend to grow in areas without accessible and affordable spay/neuter services.

Animals rescued from cruelty can come from situations like hoarding cases, dog fighting rings and puppy mills. These animals often suffer from trauma and require extra care and rehabilitation.

Surrendered animals are animals whose owners can no longer care for them due to financial, behavioral or other unforeseen barriers.

Due to these overwhelming intake rates, shelters often struggle to adopt out all-or even most-of the animals who come through their doors. With so many lives at stake, it's important to understand exactly what we're up against:*

Of the approximately 6.5 million companion animals who enter shelters nationwide every year, approximately 3.3 million are dogs and 3.2 million are cats.

Each year, approximately 1.5 million animals are euthanized (670,00 dogs and 860,000 cats).

Approximately 3.2 million shelter animals are adopted each year (1.6 million dogs and 1.6 million cats).

About 710,000 animals who enter shelters as strays are returned to their owners (620,000 dogs and 90,000 cats).

Of the dogs entering shelters, approximately 48% are adopted and 20% are euthanized

Of the cats entering shelters, approximately 50% are adopted and 27% are euthanized

About twice as many animals enter shelters as strays compared to the number that are relinquished by their owners.

*These estimates are based in part on Shelter Animals Count data and other known and estimated sources, 2015-2018. Currently, no government institution or animal organization is responsible for tabulating national statistics for the animal protection movement. These are national estimates; the figures may vary from state to state.

Donate to the ASPCA and Help Animals

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
One of the largest challenges facing animal welfare organizations today is the sheer number of animals in need of assistance. Every year, approximately 6.5 million companion animals arrive at one of the community animal shelters nationwide.

# data[].attributes.headline
Pet Overpopulation leads to Homeless pets

# data[].attributes.subject
Pet Overpopulation leads to Homeless pets

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
On any given day in the United States, there are an estimated 70 million homeless dogs and cats struggling to survive.

They are a result of people's failure to spay and neuter their animal companions, allowing them to bring more animals into a world that already has more dogs and cats than there are loving homes for them. Some were abandoned, and many are the offspring of abandoned animals whose guardians moved and left them behind or dropped them by the side of the road when they could no longer care for them or just didn't want them anymore.

Because a growing number of animal shelters have begun to turn many animals away, more and more are ending up on the streets, where they reproduce and create even more homeless animals. Dogs and cats are domesticated animals who depend on humans to meet their needs for food, water, veterinary care, shelter, and safety and cannot survive for long on their own.

What Happens to Homeless Animals?

Homeless dogs and cats on the streets get hit by cars, are vulnerable to attacks by other animals and cruel people, and contract, spread, suffer and die from contagious diseases. Simple infections left untreated can become deadly, and internal and external parasites literally eat them alive.

They freeze in the winter and suffer from heat exhaustion when temperatures soar in the summer. Puddles of water that they find to drink from can be frozen over in winter and are often polluted with motor oil, pesticides, and other dangerous substances. The lives of homeless dogs and cats are spent in fear and discomfort and then finally cut short.

Why It's Vital That Animal Shelters Help the Animals Who Need Them the Most

Animal shelters take in more than 6 million animals every year, many because their guardians can't afford euthanasia services at a veterinary hospital. Animal guardians also surrender animals who need veterinary care that they simply can't afford, such as broken legs, cancerous tumors, raging infections, contagious diseases, and more. If these guardians instead kept their ill and injured animals and denied them the needed veterinary care, it would be not just terribly cruel and irresponsible but also illegal-laws in every state protect animals from wanton neglect.

Each year, only around 10% of the large homeless animal population is ever admitted to an animal shelter, where hopefully they can find safety and comfort, receive treatment for minor medical conditions, and be assessed for adoption into a new home. Of the millions of animals who enter shelters each year, about half must be euthanized for humane reasons or because no suitable homes exist for them.

The Solution to Animal Homelessness

The companion animal overpopulation crisis can be overwhelming, but the good news is that the suffering and deaths of homeless animals is 100% preventable through spaying and neutering. Despite recommendations and urgings from nonprofit groups, veterinarians, and public shelters and a growing number of free and low-cost spay/neuter clinics, many people still fail to provide their animal companions with this routine, lifesaving medical procedure.

Some communities are addressing the homeless-animal crisis by requiring everyone who chooses not to spay or neuter to pay a hefty breeder's fee. Areas with such laws have reported a significant reduction in the number of animals found roaming.

Because many people won't do the right thing unless the law requires them to, those who care must lobby for local laws that will require animal guardians to prevent the births of more dogs and cats when so many are literally dying for homes. Find out how here.

Share this page to educate others about the animal homelessness crisis and urge them to spay and neuter their animal companions.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Companion Animal Overpopulation and Homelessness | PETA

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
On any given day in the United States, there are an estimated 70 million homeless dogs and cats. Learn how you can help them.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Cats and dogs depend on humans for their everyday needs - food, water, shelter, veterinary care, love, and more. Yet thousands of animals across the UK have no guardian to care for them, let alone a warm, comfortable place to curl up at night. Many suffer and die on the streets or have to be euthanised for lack of good homes. Animal homelessness is a complex crisis, but the solution is simple: adopt animals from shelters or the streets instead of buying them from breeders or pet shops, and prevent unwanted animals from being born by always having your companion animals spayed or neutered.

Too Many Animals, Too Few Good Homes

At any given time, there are an estimated 100,000 dogs - and countless cats - without homes in the UK. Left to fend for themselves on the streets, cats and dogs often suffer and die after getting hit by cars, being attacked by other animals, succumbing to extreme temperatures, starving, contracting contagious diseases, and facing other dangers. Many stray animals are poisoned, shot, mutilated, tortured, set on fire, or killed in other cruel ways.

Animals are often abandoned by the people they depend on to care for them. For example, two dogs were found huddled together near a river in Tottenham Marshes, London, after apparently being dumped there. Both of them were extremely thin, and one of them, who was elderly, could barely walk. Another dog was found tethered to a fence in Bramley, Leeds, on New Year's Day having apparently been left there overnight in freezing temperatures while fireworks were being set off nearby. The dog was so terrified that he was shaking and had wet himself.

Open-admission shelters accept every animal in need, caring for them and keeping them safe, warm, fed, and loved. But because there are so many homeless animals and not enough good homes for them all, many have to be euthanised - a procedure that's fast and painless for animals but heartbreaking for the caring shelter workers who must perform it.

Who's to Blame?

Why are so many animals homeless? Breeders and pet trade are major contributors to this crisis because they bring more puppies and kittens into a world that doesn't have enough good homes for all the animals who already exist. Puppy and kitten mills - which supply animals to pet shops - churn out litter after litter, and many of the dogs and cats bred by breeders will either become homeless themselves or fill homes that could have gone to animals waiting in shelters. Puppies and kittens bought from breeders or pet shops are often taken away from their mother at just a few weeks old, leaving them sickly, traumatised, and unsocialised. This can lead to physical and mental health issues that many people are unable or unwilling to deal with.

In April 2020, a law came into force in England banning third-party commercial sales of puppies and kittens under 6 months of age. If it's strictly enforced, "Lucy's Law" will put puppy and kitten mills and other commercial breeders out of business. Unlicensed breeders and licensed ones who can't show puppies and kittens interacting with their mother now face fines or prison sentences.

People who don't have their animal companions spayed or neutered are also to blame for animal homelessness. Some may think that letting a cat or dog have "just one litter" isn't a big deal, but that "one litter" can quickly lead to hundreds or even thousands of animals if the offspring from that litter go on to have kittens or puppies of their own, and so on.

Many people acquire animals on a whim or give them as "gifts" without considering the lifetime commitment that's involved. When people discover that caring for an animal requires more effort, money, time, and patience than they expected, they often turn their backs on their loyal companions.

People who acquire animals in response to a "fad" often dump them just as quickly after the craze fades. In recent years, there has been a spike in the number of huskies being abandoned or handed over to shelters, which experts attribute to increased demand for the breed because of its physical similarities to the direwolves from Game of Thrones. Blue Cross adoption centres saw a137% increase in the number of miniature breeds given up between 2008 and 2013 as people tried to imitate celebrities who were seen carrying tiny dogs in their handbags.

Staffordshire bull terriers, Rottweilers, Akitas, and other breeds often acquired as macho status symbols are frequently abandoned after they become too aggressive to handle. And sadly, many animals are overlooked or abandoned simply for being the "wrong" colour: Blue Cross reported a 65% rise in the number of black cats they took in each year between 2007 and 2013, speculating that the increase was because black cats don't show up as well in selfies.

Remember: always adopt - never shop.

Hope for Homeless Animals

The simplest, most important, and most effective way to spare cats and dogs all this suffering is to prevent more unwanted animals from being born by making sure that animals are spayed or neutered.

Every animal who is sterilised prevents potentially hundreds of thousands more from being born only to suffer and die on the streets, be abused by cruel or neglectful people, or be euthanised for lack of loving homes. Without spaying, one female dog and her offspring can produce 67,000 puppies in just six years. In seven years, one female cat and her offspring can produce a staggering 370,000 kittens!

Spaying and neutering are routine, affordable surgeries that improve animals' health: spaying avoids the stress and discomfort that females endure during heat periods, eliminates the risk of uterine cancer, and greatly reduces the risk of mammary cancer. Neutering makes males far less likely to roam or fight, prevents testicular cancer, and reduces the risk of prostate cancer. In the UK, low-cost, subsidised spaying and neutering services for dogs and cats are offered by some companion-animal charities.

Communities that have passed mandatory spay-and-neuter legislation have reported a significant reduction in the number of animals who are taken to shelters and subsequently euthanised.

What You Can Do

Each of us can help work towards a day when every animal can have a loving, permanent home by having our animal companions spayed or neutered and by always adopting animals, never buying them from pet shops or breeders. And encourage everyone you know to do the same! It's also important to consider whether we're prepared to take on the lifelong commitment of caring for an animal before adding a new member to the family.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Animal Homelessness | Animals Are Not Ours to Abuse | PETA UK

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Thousands of animals across the UK have no guardian to care for them, let alone a warm, comfortable place to curl up at night. Many suffer and die on the streets or have to be euthanised for lack of good homes.

# data[].attributes.headline
Animal Homelessness is a Community challenge

# data[].attributes.subject
Animal Homelessness is a Community challenge

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Copy of Copy of Animal - These Teens Made a Difference_ Ayna Agarwal _ News For Kids, By Kids _ Scholastic.com.pdf