What Holland Did To Eliminate Stray Dogs Is Extreme
There isn't a single homeless dog in Holland. What they did to eliminate the issue of homeless and abandoned dogs may seem extreme, but many countries may want to look at doing the same. Homeless dogs in the United States outnumber homeless people 5 to 1. The statistics on stray dogs are alarming and yet, people continue to buy puppies from pet stores. They may look cute in the store window when they are small and full of energy, but they grow up and grow old requiring extra attention and money to look after them. The decision to buy a dog should be a big one with the long term in mind.
With millions of cold and neglected stray dogs roaming the United States every day, there seems to be no perfect solution to the problem. Approximately one in ten of these street dogs has been spayed or neutered which means the number of strays is likely to increase. One country in particular has found a solution to the problem.
Holland Has No Stray Dogs
Holland is proud to say it has zero street dogs, the first country known to have accomplished this seemingly impossible feat. Stricter laws and regulations were put in place to help prevent animal abuse or abandonment throughout the country. Fines of up to 16,000 euro and possible imprisonment await those who abuse or abandon their pet. The pet laws were created with similarities to child abuse laws. After all, a dog really is part of a loving family.
A Strong Initiative
Laws, however, can only go so far. The government of Holland also offers free neutering to prevent breeding amongst stray dogs. This initiative helps to stop more strays from being produced, but what about all the strays that are already out there?
Public Perception
Perhaps the biggest part Holland's success came from public perception. Several advertising campaigns were launched to promote adoption as opposed to buying. Changing the attitudes of the masses and spreading awareness is the real long term solution to treating the problem.
Consider The Long Term
Before buying a puppy, consider adoption and always consider the long term outcome of that decision. Dogs need forever homes.
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