Pet owners have responsibility to spay, neuter

To the editor:

I would like to thank the Southeast Missourian for its recent editorial, "Pet owners key to fewer animals at pound." I see the trauma of the companion-animal overpopulation epidemic daily.

During 2001, we received nearly 4,800 potential pet companions: 2,778 dogs, 1,896 cats and over 100 other animals from goats to iguanas. We received more animals than in 2000. Although 1,164 animals were adopted and 374 were returned to their owners, the numbers are still hard to take. We were forced to euthanize over 3,000 living creatures.

The editorial was correct. The fault "lies at the feet of humans who don't spay or neuter their pets." Along with our generous donors, the animal shelter has given away nearly $25,000 in spay and neuter vouchers over the past three years. We can only do so much.

Don't adopt or purchase a pet you can't afford. If you can afford a pet, adopt a shelter animal. We receive hundreds of purebred and thousands of mixed-breed animals annually.

Having your pets spayed or neutered prevents some cancers. It also prevents unwanted animals from being brought to the Humane Society. The editorial was correct: "It's up to pet owners." Help us help the animals. Spay and neuter.

CINDY LANGE

Education Coordinator

Humane Society of Southeast Missouri

Cape Girardeau