They, too, promote spay and neuter of pets, but as a voluntary means to reduce unwanted litters, not a matter of law. The contracts can require references from a veterinarian and from previous landlords. These agreements can broaden housing opportunities for pet owners, keeping some dogs from surrender to the shelter and allowing more adoptions to apartment-dwellers. An on-staff behavior counselor or obedience instructor or an agreement with a private trainer or obedience club can work to keep these dogs in their homes or get them ready for new homes. People want puppies, but spay and neuter programs have been so successful in some areas of the country that puppies are in short supply.
Some shelters therefore import puppies from areas in which they are plentiful.
In spite of much evidence to the contrary, people still hold on to the old adage that says You can t teach an old dog new tricks. With a bit of extra care and commitment, older dogs can adapt to new circumstances and bring years of pleasure to families and individuals. Shelters can promote adoptions of older dogs through community campaigns that emphasize the advantages of a house-trained pet with good manners. Dog lovers concerned about euthanasia statistics have an unparalleled opportunity to make a difference by calling a local shelter public or private and offering their services to help with fund-raising, cleaning kennels, walking or grooming dogs, training dogs, fostering dogs, helping with education programs, etc. Shelters differ in their needs and programs, but most welcome assistance.