by Ted Sherman

Created on: November 11, 2007   Last Updated: March 20, 2008

By the title of this article, I assume the homelessness refers to domestic animals, primarily cats and dogs. I'll address that issue, but first I'd like readers to consider the so-called progress of civilization that takes away the homes of millions of wild animals throughout the world. In some areas, the never-ending glut of forest destruction and runaway construction has resulted in the permanent loss of habitat for many animals.

I believe it is at least as important to find ways to end that kind of sweeping animal homelessness, so that many species facing extinction can be saved. It should start with public education, so that our children will learn early the lessons of protecting wild animals. People and organizations should actively support legislation that prevents the destruction and blading over of habitat necessary for their survival. Limits on hunting and fishing should be put in place and enforced to prevent destruction of endangered species.

As for homelessness of cats and dogs, there is also a critical situation. In America, as many as ten million unwanted cats and dogs are put to death annually in so-called animal shelters. Some may consider that merciful, but there may be almost as many abandoned and feral animals who meet agonizing deaths on streets and highways from starvation, disease, exposure and vehicle injuries.

There are many ways to fight against homelessness in domestic animals. The most obvious is to support local activities that prevent the birth of unwanted puppies and kittens. Within driving distance of practically every home in America, there are animal shelters that offer low cost or free neutering and spaying services. Many shelters will only give out cats and dogs for adoption after they have been fixed. If you feel your female pet should have one litter, have her spayed as soon as appropriate thereafter. However, before you allow the pregnancy, be sure you have definite homes for all the puppies or kittens. Overpopulation is at least one of the main causes of pet homelessness.

The most sentimental, and perhaps most effective, way to fight animal homelessness is to adopt your next pet from an animal shelter. It will give you a feeling of comfort, because you'll be saving a life that is sure to bring years of love and companionship into your home. If you're not content to choose a typical mixed breed, and want a classier animal, you can buy a purebred from a breeder or from a pet shop.

However you acquire your pet, there are two questions you must consider. First, is the pet you choose, by size and other features, appropriate for your family, your house and your ability to take on the responsibility? Second, have you done your research before you buy your new pet, such as checking out the store or breeder to make sure you're not buying from a "puppy mill" or otherwise unscrupulous or dishonest dealers?

Finally, once you get your new pet into its new home, make sure you won't make it homeless again. You need adequate fencing, to obey leash laws and never send your pet out without adequate ID. License tags are necessary, and they should include information such as your name, address, phone number and required pet health data. Such ID information can also be permanently tattooed on the animal's skin or a microchip can be implanted. Of course, adequate fences can keep dogs in, but cats are natural roamers, and it is essential that you prevent your cat from getting into danger on the streets.

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