Puppies Saved From Death At Overcrowded Shelter
More than 50 puppies found new homes and more importantly, escaped death Monday thanks to dozens of adoptions.
A total of 54 puppies were adopted at the Animal Service Center of the Mesilla Valley by Monday evening.
“I think they all deserve a chance,? Ray Nunez, who adopted a dog, said. ?If she needs a home, we’ll give her one.”
It was a packed waiting room but people adopting pets said, it was well worth a long wait to save a life.
“It made me sad, even now it makes me cry,? Josie Peters, who adopted a dog, said. ?I couldn’t sleep thinking about all the animals they were going to kill, and I had to come to buy a dog; I think he’ll save me.”
Peters adopted a Cocker Spaniel, who is just one of nearly 300 dogs at the ASCMV available for adoption, sitting and waiting for an owner and a loving home. But when 100 more puppies crowded into cages at the shelter this past Friday, Dr. Beth Vesco-Mock, the shelter?s director, said she had to consider euthanizing half of them ? not because the pups were sick but rather, there simply was not enough room.
“I am relieved, it’s real nice not to have to put down dogs that are healthy,? Isaac Padilla, an animal caregiver at the ASCMV, said. ?As you can see though, it seems we’re really full again already even though we have a lot going out, so it’s still real tough.”
According to Public Health Services, the shelter?s average euthanasia rate last year was 56%, considerably lower compared to El Paso?s 74% average.
Those who adopted a new furry companion said they hope more dogs are given a second chance.
“I think it’s great, it’s good people can come out here and help the community save the dogs, take something home and get a new member of the family,? Justin Moore, who adopted a pup, said.
Dr. Vesco-Mock said it is important to keep in mind the huge responsibility that comes with adoption.
Two dogs that were adopted over the weekend were returned Monday. Dr. Vesco-Mock said, people must be ready for the commitment of a pet before they take one home.
