It’s springtime and with the tantalizing scents of spring comes the promise of sunshine, warmer temperatures, spring showers and a deluge of homeless animals. It is raining dogs, cats and rabbits at animal shelters across the country because any dog, cat or rabbit that is not spayed or neutered is now reproducing.

Why is this a concern? As a result of the pet overpopulation problem in the United States, each year millions of healthy, adoptable dogs, cats and rabbits are surrendered to shelters and could face euthanasia simply because there are too many animals and not enough responsible homes available. If left to reproduce, an unspayed female cat and her geometric offspring can produce 420,000 homeless cats in a seven year period. In just six years, one female dog and her young can produce 67,000 unwanted dogs. This tremendous pet overpopulation problem strains the budgets and resources of animal welfare agencies dedicated to aiding homeless animals.

For the Humane Society of Missouri, this mission includes rescue, investigation of cruelty and neglect, comprehensive veterinary medical care, rehabilitation for horses and farm-type animals and education for all ages on the care and appreciation of animals in our lives. Our goal is to eliminate pet overpopulation through an affordable spaying and neutering option. Our Spay/Neuter Initiative Program (SNIP) is available for a nominal fee of $29.95 and performed by licensed veterinarians giving state-of-the-art medical care. Surgery appointments can be made by calling 314-802-5700. Your pet must have current vaccinations or they can be given for an additional cost. Don’t wait, many lives tomorrow depend on your responsible action today.

Additionally, the typical storms in the Midwest are another factor affecting the numbers of animals turning up at agency doors. Lightening and thunder are common fears of many dogs and cats. Anxious animals will climb fences; dig under enclosures or bolt out of opened doors in a vain attempt to escape the noise. Many lost pets are unable to find their way home and are often the victims of accidents, starvation and dehydration, animal fights, disease, abuse or worse.

How can we protect our pets? By being proactive. Even if your pet has never stepped foot outside of your home unleashed, consider the worst case scenario and prepare. Accidents do happen. Have your pet micro-chipped to be certain that permanent identification is in place. A micro-chip is the size of a small grain of rice and contains a number issued only to your pet. It is injected under the skin in the scruff of the neck and is no more painful than a simple vaccination. If a collar is removed or lost, your pet still has a voice and can be traced back to you.

We can all help to make a dent in the pet overpopulation and stray animal problems by taking responsible, affordable action today to prevent heartache and loss of lives tomorrow. The Humane Society of Missouri stands ready to help!