This October, Bring Home a Shelter Dog for American Humane's Adopt-A-Do...( With Home Foreclosures Displacing ...),Health

With Home Foreclosures Displacing People and Dogs Alike, Shelters and

Rescue Groups Need Adopters

DENVER, Sept. 23 /PRNewswire/ -- The housing crisis and economic turmoil have taken their toll on an unexpected group: dogs.

Driven largely by the rising tide of home foreclosures, animal shelters across the country are overpopulated with furry friends. While no national statistics exist, shelters across the country say they are receiving dogs everyday from displaced homeowners. With more dogs than adopters, shelters are facing a tragic scenario: euthanizing dogs that would, in the past, be snatched up for adoption.

Solving this huge problem is top of mind as the American Humane Association prepares to celebrate its annual anniversary of Adopt-A-Dog Month(R) this October. Adopt-A-Dog Month is an effort by American Humane to support canine adoption from animal shelters while spreading the word about responsible pet care. American Humane is a 130-year-old organization dedicated to protecting both animals and children. This year's American Humane Adopt-A-Dog Month is being sponsored by Fetchdog.com, which offers dog people a place to find the highest-quality dog supplies and credible advice on their dog's health and wellness.

"Economic times are tight. Now, more than ever, there is a real need and a great reason for people who want a dog, to get it from their local animal shelter or rescue group," says Marie Belew Wheatley, president and CEO of American Humane. "Shelters are literally packed with obedient, loving, trained dogs right now. By adopting a dog from a shelter this October, or at any time, people can save the lives of these precious animals and give them much-needed, loving homes."

While American Humane strongly encourages shelter adoptions, potential families should consider the following before visiting the local shelter:

Dogs Require Exercise Just Like Humans

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