STOP LITTERS, FIX YOUR CRITTERS!

How TNR Saves Feline Lives

• Stops the breeding cycle: Spaying and neutering cats prevents the birth of countless kittens, many of whom would otherwise suffer or die outdoors due to lack of food, parasites, disease, or predation.
• Reduces shelter euthanasia: Unsocialized (feral) cats are rarely adoptable, meaning almost all feral cats brought to shelters are euthanized. By returning sterilized cats to their outdoor homes, TNR keeps them out of the shelter system entirely, significantly reducing overall euthanasia rates at municipal shelters.
• Improves the health and well-being of existing cats: Sterilization eliminates the stress and health risks associated with constant mating, pregnancy, and fighting. Cats in managed TNR colonies often gain weight, have better coat conditions, are less likely to roam into dangerous areas (like traffic), and live healthier, longer lives comparable to pet cats.
• Provides veterinary care: As part of the TNR process, cats are vaccinated against diseases like rabies and distemper, and any minor injuries or illnesses are treated. This improves individual health and benefits public health by creating a vaccinated population. 

Pit bulls are plentiful in animal shelters due to a combination of overpopulation from irresponsible breeding, social and legal discrimination, and a high rate of owner surrender driven by various factors.

Reasons for High Shelter Intake

• Overbreeding: Widespread, unregulated "backyard breeding" and accidental litters, combined with a lack of affordable spay/neuter services, create a massive supply of pit bull-type dogs. This overpopulation far exceeds the number of available responsible homes.
• Housing Discrimination and Legal Barriers: Many landlords, apartment complexes, and homeowners associations have breed-specific policies that ban pit bull-type dogs. When owners move, they are often forced to surrender their pets, contributing significantly to shelter populations. Breed-Specific Legislation (BSL) in certain municipalities also limits where these dogs can live.
• Negative Public Perception: Persistent negative stereotypes, often fueled by media sensationalism, make the public leery of adopting pit bulls. This means pit bulls typically have longer shelter stays and are less likely to be adopted compared to other breeds, even if they have a good temperament.
• Owner Surrenders: People may acquire a pit bull for a "macho" image or without understanding the significant commitment needed for proper training and socialization. When faced with behavioral issues from lack of stimulation, economic hardship, or high pet care costs, owners may abandon or surrender their pets.
• Misidentification: Often, any medium-sized, short-haired dog with a wide skull is labeled as a "pit bull" in shelters, even if they are a mix of other breeds. This broad labeling contributes to the high numbers attributed to the "breed."