When it comes to euthanasia of shelter dogs, the statistics are almost sickening. According to the World Animal Foundation, approximately 52% of U.S. animal shelters are actually kill shelters. [1]
The ASPCA states that about 390,000 dogs are euthanized in shelters each year, according to the latest data. [2]
The only thing that can help stop this tragedy is adoption.
While the percentage may still seem pretty alarming, the truth is that the numbers are actually way down, considering that in 2019, there were over 625,000 pets euthanized. [3]
Thanks to some amazing people working tirelessly to save as many dogs as possible, there are more and more dogs saved each year all across the country.
Tracy’s Dogs is one of the truly amazing rescue organizations dedicated to saving shelter dogs from the red list and ensuring they end up being adopted into loving forever homes.
The Heartwarming Work Of Tracy’s Dogs
It all started with a 6-week work furlough in 2010 when Tracy Voss Whyatt found her true passion.
After being laid off from her work, she spent her free time going to local shelters and taking photos of dogs that were on the euthanasia list.
Soon, she realized that because of her and her photos, those dogs were finally getting adopted. A year later, Tracy and her husband, Scott Whyatt, started a non-profit organization.
“We take dogs that are right now housed in high-kill shelters, we pull them, and take them to our facility in San Antonio. We rehabilitate them, get them healthy, and get them ready to be adopted,” said Liz Grabarits, Operations Director for the non-profit.
“Once we get them all pre-adopted, we transport them up to northern cities, and all of the families that have pre-adopted these dogs get to meet them for the very first time,” Liz explained.
Rescue, Rehome, Repeat
Since the company started in 2011, Tracy’s Dogs has rescued and adopted over 5,307 dogs all around the country.
“When people are adopting a dog from us, I want them to understand that they are adopting that dog, but they’re also really saving three dogs’ lives,” Liz said.
“We have a very limited amount of space at our camp in Texas, so it only holds about 100 dogs. So, when Scott pulls away with the trailer with maybe 60 dogs, that opens up another 60 dogs, and Tracy immediately goes to shelters and gets 60 more. That also means those shelters can take in another 60 dogs, so we’re just… we do this every month. We cycle them in and out.”
They hope to grow even more and save as many lives as possible.
From Shelter to Forever Home
Over the years, Tracy’s Dogs has partnered with PetSmart, which has enabled them to have a meeting space for the dog and its new parents.
“We are the lucky ones to be involved with them,” said Bob Horn, assistant manager of PetSmart.
It’s not uncommon for new owners to cry when they see their new puppy for the first time. “It’s really one of the best feelings in the world. You might have a poker face, but it’s all butterflies riding up here,” said Scott.
It’s a very emotional and tear-jerking moment, full of love and pure happiness.
No dog or animal deserves to be mistreated, and Tracy’s Dogs is truly doing everything in their power to save as many innocent little pups as possible.
References:
[1] Osborn, J. F. (2023, June 10). Animal Shelter statistics – Pet lifesaving by the numbers!! World Animal Foundation.
[2] Pet Statistics. (n.d.). American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).
[3] Best Friends Animal Society releases data showing most significant annual decrease in animals killed in shelters. (2021, June 22). Best Friends Animal Society – Save Them All.