By Paula Fitzsimmons
Rescues are filled with animals who have suffered to some degree in their previous lives. Then there’s shelter life, rife with its own unique challenges – from the stress of being in a new environment, to increased vulnerability to outbreaks.
Balancing the needs of individual animals with that of the group’s isn’t a cake walk for shelter staff, either.
By Paula Fitzsimmons
There’s no question a need for animal rescues, shelters, and sanctuaries exists.
The animal welfare community has worked – and succeeded – to decrease the number of homeless animals, but there are still pressing issues. According to a 2012-2013 study by the former National Council on Pet Population Study and Policy (by way of the Humane Society of the US), there are an estimated 3,500 animal shelters in the United States – with 6 to 8 million cats and dogs entering these shelters each year.