Adoption refused due to same sex dog at home not being spayed.

Question

Help! My mother, who is a senior wanted to adopt a senior female dog (7yrs old) Chihuahua mix from a local shelter. Recently, one of her dogs passed away, and the other dog left behind is showing signs of grief from the loss of her playmate/sister. Not to mention my mother for losing her dog. The shelter refused her application for the adoption of the senior dog because the dog she has at home (which is a female, same sex), was not spayed. There is absolutely no chance of the two dogs breeding. Why would the shelter deny the senior dog (sitting in a crate for the past 3 months) of the chance to live out its life within a loving home? Does a dog have any rights? Shouldn’t an adoption be on a case-by-case basis? Seems cruel to me. The woman I spoke to at the shelter said, “it’s their policy”. Meanwhile they have every cage full.

Pennsylvania

Answer

Shelters have discretion on the placement of their animals. Although I don’t know whether the dog your mother was interested in adopting is still available for adoption, consider that perhaps this situation can be resolved if your mother’s dog gets spayed. Shelters see firsthand the tragedy that results from the overpopulation of dogs (and other animals) which is caused when people do not have their animals spayed or neutered. While people don’t think that their animals will get lost, it does happen, and much too often. While out, breeding can and does occur, contributing to the overpopulation problem. Spaying/neutering can also provide health benefits. I hope this all works out well for everyone!