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WHEREAS, it is estimated that Americans own 70-80 million dogs and 75-95 million cats, who provide companionship in nearly 40% of American households; and,
WHEREAS, between six and eight million cats and dogs enter our nation’s shelter system each year and these shelters do not have the capacity to support this huge number of accidental litters and strays; and,
WHEREAS, this tragic overpopulation of pets costs citizens and taxpayers of this country millions of dollars annually through animal service programs aimed at coping with millions of homeless animals; and,
WHEREAS, across the United States, animal shelters are forced to euthanize nearly three million cats, dogs, and other animals each year, many of whom are healthy and adoptable, due to a lack of critical resources and public awareness; and,
WHEREAS, spaying and neutering is the only 100% proven way to effectively reduce the overpopulation of pets, proving to be a wise investment to save animal lives and taxpayer dollars; and,
WHEREAS, this year marks the 22nd annual World Spay Day and, since its inception in 1995, participants have altered million animals and more than 100,000 in Pittsburgh; and,
WHEREAS, veterinarians, national and local animal protection organizations, and private citizens have joined together again to advocate the spaying and neutering of pets and feral cats; and,
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NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby recognize and commend the veterinarians, animal protection organizations, and pet owners who have joined together to raise awareness about the importance of spaying and neutering pets; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby declare February 23, 2016, to be “World Spay Day” in the City of Pittsburgh.