As a volunteer for the Humane Society of Charlotte. It upsets me that people are so misconceived about where the money goes, and the well being of each and every animal that resides there.
Understaffed? Yes, maybe. It is far too expensive for a donation only to pay for a larger staff. That is why there are thousands of volunteers there. We do it out of a passion for animals, not for the money. So what is the reason for more staff, when we offer to do the same for free.
There are new animals brought in every week from surrenders, and from animal control. So yes, it gets crowded. But never uncomfortably for the dogs, and a dog is usually gone in a week or so as it is. And again, all the space and kennels cost money. At a no kill shelter things do get expensive, but they are all well fed and cared for.
You're 'expensive' $110 fee goes towards any health care, a free spay/neuter, microchipping, shots, and a months worth pet insurance. $110 does not TOUCH the money that they put forth on these animals. Altering alone can cost more than $200, but they do it for you, to ensure responsible pet ownership. And microchipping isn't cheap either, and ensures your new pet will be brought back to you if something happens.
I support animal control and what they have to do, however I do not support putting an innocent, friendly, harmless dog down for it's breed. A breed that they may not even be 100% sure of. As a pit owner, I can not look at those innocent faces thrown straight to death row. Humane Society on the other hand goes in takes 6 or 7 of those hopeless dogs and finds them homes, as well as several dogs of other breeds.
Lastly, your t shirt comment. They are donated, and WE solely pay for them at the time we begin volunteering. Maybe if you knew your facts, you wouldn't post such untrue things. And the dogs that can not go to homes with small children.. The Humane Society is at liability of anything happening, so if that dog snaps at a random scream, or ear pull, or even just playfully knocks your child down and seriously injures him, they don't want that responsibility. It's a risk, and they have more experience than you do to decide which home is fit.
Thank you & reconsider your thoughts.
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