One of the main reasons animals end up in animal shelters is that owners are unable to take care of them, claims Michelson Found Animals Foundation.

1. The Condition of Dogs
in Shelter Homes
Positive Impressions, LLC

2. One of the main reasons animals end up in animal shelters is that owners are unable to take care of
them, claims Michelson Found Animals Foundation.
In the US, about 3.3 million dogs enter animal shelters every year, The American Society for Prevention
of Cruelty to Animals reports. An estimated 1.6 million of those dogs are adopted, while 671,000 are
euthanized.
What happens to the ones who stay?
While there are volunteers to take care of shelter animals, the living condition in pounds is stressful for
dogs.
Physical Condition of Shelter Dogs
Every dog has different needs, but not all animal shelters have the means to meet these needs. Some
dogs are picky eaters while some are voracious. Shelter dogs' health may decline because they have to
share limited resources with the entire pound.

3. Apart from the inadequate supply of food, shelter dogs are exposed to illness and parasite outbreak. Dog
Whisperer host Cesar Millan, in his website, says kennel cough is a common disease of shelter dogs.
Parvovirus, a virus that attacks the intestinal tract of dogs, also threatens shelter dogs. Dogs with
incomplete vaccines are the most invulnerable.
Also, because shelter dogs are confined most of the time, they have little time to run around. Breeds that
need much exercise may become overweight.
Emotional Condition of Shelter Dogs
From their first day at the pound, shelter dogs develop signs of anxiety. Some vocalize and bark
excessively, some stay immobile and refuse to eat, while others become aggressive.
Shelter dogs also become lonely due to isolation. Dogs given up by their owners experience separation
anxiety, which results in depression.
Dogs, being social beings, need regular interaction. However, shelter dogs don't have the leisure of
frequent socialization. Because of this, they develop fear, depression, and aggression.
Millions of dogs are abandoned every year and put in the care of the shelter system. In the shelters, they
have few opportunities to learn and socialize. Shelter dogs are prone to illnesses and depression.
Humans can help ease their situation. If adoption is not possible, volunteering and donating are helpful.

4. SOURCES
http://positiveimpressionsllc.com/
https://www.aspca.org/animal-homelessness/shelter-intake-and-surrender/pet-statistics
https://centerforshelterdogs.tufts.edu/dog-welfare/transition-and-stress/
https://www.cesarsway.com/get-involved/shelters/top-5-myths-about-shelter-dogs