EDITORIAL: Animals aplenty

Posted 6/22/17

Given our state’s abundance of livestock and wildlife, it’s no wonder that many Wyomingites love animals, especially their pets.

Local residents’ affection for their pets is evident in the Tribune’s fourth annual Cutest Pet Contest, which …

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EDITORIAL: Animals aplenty

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Support local shelters, spay/neuter your pets

Wyoming has far more animals than humans. In fact, cattle alone outnumber people by 2-to-1 in the Cowboy State.

Given our state’s abundance of livestock and wildlife, it’s no wonder that many Wyomingites love animals, especially their pets.

Local residents’ affection for their pets is evident in the Tribune’s fourth annual Cutest Pet Contest, which drew more than 125 entries — dogs, cats, a fish, a bearded dragon and even a raccoon.

It’s clear that many pets in our area have wonderful, loving homes where they are well cared for and loved.

But we also know that some dogs and cats still need homes. Unfortunately, shelters in Powell and Cody often are stretched to meet the needs of unwanted animals who end up there. Kathy McDonald, who operates the nonprofit 3 Dog Rescue, is forced to turn away dogs every week. Without more support, the local canine rescue service won’t be able to continue.

“We’re very small, and the need in the Basin is great,” she said.

Residents can do their part by supporting 3 Dog Rescue, the City of Powell/Moyer Animal Shelter and Park County Animal Shelter.

But our responsibility extends beyond donations.

By spaying and neutering animals, you can help prevent the problem of unwanted or abandoned kittens and puppies.

On Monday, a dog at the Powell shelter gave birth to seven puppies. Each little one will need a good home. The shelter also recently took in two mama cats with litters of kittens.

Which brings us to our next point: If you’re ready to commit to taking care of a pet, look to the local animal shelters or rescue service first.

We’re blessed to have no-kill shelters in Powell and Cody, but they can only keep so many cats and dogs at a time. It’s up to the community to ensure these animals — whether they’re abandoned, strays, neglected, abused or relinquished — are adopted.

Animals end up in the shelter for different reasons, but each of them needs someone who is willing to give them a chance.

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