Animal overpopulation in its simplest definition is too many animals and not enough good homes for them. I say good homes, because there are plenty of homes for pets but not all of them are good. I think one of the best examples was illustrated one day I was at the shelter.
 |
| A litter of stray puppies being separated, boys from girls. |
Sometimes I think it's too easy for prospective owners to get pets as well. People can make quick decisions without thinking them through. An example of that is Cam. I saw him the day he was going home. He was so excited. I couldn't believe he was brought back after only one day. When I went to visit him, I checked out the return reason on his card. It said, "Needs fenced-in yard." I have to fight sarcasm here, but the phrase "duh" comes to mind.
I think society as a whole doesn't give much thought to animal overpopulation. They think the shelter does that thinking for them. I know my awareness of this issue has increased monumentally from taking this course. I take care of my own, make sure my own dog is spayed...but beyond that, not much. I believe strides are being made. I am grateful that the WCAS was expanded so they could house more animals and in turn decrease the euthanasia rate. I was also pleased to learn the other organizations such as the SPCA are giving low-cost spay/neuter services. But more has to be done about awareness. There is all this great information and resources that people know nothing about.
As far as the WCAS, I believe what they are doing is wonderful. Requiring people to spay/neuter animals that are adopted will go a long way in preventing overpopulation. We haven't mentioned animal control very much, but I believe their efforts should be commended as well. I imagine some of these animals are not easy to bring here.
All in all, good efforts are being made. But as with any business or other type of venture, there is always room for improvement. Who knows? Maybe one of our ideas could bring about positive change. You just never know...
As for my top ten images of the class, that was a very hard choice. Here they are:
 |
| Up first is Milt. I just loved his smile! |
 |
| Here's Jack Dempsey...one handsome dog |
 |
| A very regal Purrcy |
 |
| A very somber Drake |
 |
| A lady-like Patty O'Greene |
 |
| My first meeting with London. Terrified, hackles up and growling. |
 |
| My second meeting with a very excited London! Let me get my camera... |
 |
| Say cheese London!! Isn't she cute? |
 |
| My first photo of Cam...isn't he gorgeous! |
 |
| You had to know this would be the one...me and Cam enjoying some cuddle time |
Hope you enjoy my selections. Thank you for viewing.
Happy shooting!
Your first photo has a strong impact. When talking about animal over population.. I think of overwhelming amounts. The image of the puppies that shoes them all crowded together represents the issue well, whether intentional or not. The second to last picture of the tan dog really stands out... the blacks are very dark and contrast strong against the tan fur. Te catch lights are strong and are not over-done.
ReplyDeleteAll of your pictures are great...I especially enjoy the progression of London. Great work!
ReplyDelete@ Peyton...Thank you for your comments. It was trooubling that day watching those puppies come in. There were about 10 of them all together. I figured nothing would say overpopulation like that.
ReplyDelete@ Jess...Thank you for your comments. I enjoyed visiting with London. She's a real sweetheart!
ReplyDeleteI agree with Peyton. That first image is powerful. I love the tiny glimpse of the white dog in the upper left corner watching. It makes me sad. Great examples and wonderful essay! This is informative, interesting, and flows well!
ReplyDelete@ Professor Johnstone...your feedback is extremely helpful. Thank you for taking the time to leave it. I am frequently intrigued by what our lenses pick up that we were not focusing on. I think the white dog peeking out from behind the cage added impact to this image.
ReplyDelete