Pet owners key to fewer animals at pound

The Southeast Missourian runs the Pet of the Week photograph 52 times a year.

Because of the exposure, those 52 animals are the focus of concern for many in the community and often receive warm, happy homes.

But that doesn't do much for the hundreds of other animals that go under the needle, put to death because there is no room or money to keep them alive.

The fault lies clearly at the feet of humans who don't spay or neuter their pets, resulting in the production of unwanted offspring.

Other pet owners aren't ready for the responsibility.

Yes, pets bring much joy, but they can be much work as well.

They also can mean many additional and sometime unexpected expenditures.

The answer: Don't buy a cute puppy or kitten on impulse.

Consider whether you are ready to take on the equivalent of a young child. And then be responsible, researching your pet's needs.

Ideally, the Pet of the Week feature would become unnecessary because there would be so few unwanted pets.

It's up to pet owners.