I believe that the way to stop the overpopulation of dogs and their subsequent abandonment and euthanasia is to stop wholesaling puppies. I think everyone would be surprised if the USDA released the number of puppies and kittens shipped throughout the country. I never hear this addressed. Many people who buy a puppy at a pet shop only see a cute puppy, they don't realize the commitment required or the temperament type that their new puppy will grown to be.
Responsible breeders make sure the puppy they sell or give away fits the home it is going to.
All breed clubs and their members that are associated with the American Kennel Club have a commitment to educating their members and the public on responsible pet ownership. I have helped rescue Welsh Terriers for about 10 years and have found an increase each year in the numbers that come into rescue that were bought at a retail store. Some of the popular breeds see 90 percent of their rescues coming from retail stores. I suggest the city impose a tax of 20 to 25 percent on every puppy and kitten sold through a retail store. Please include the date and topic.