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Companion Animals - Pets

Probably our closest relationships with other species are the relationships we have with our companion animals. As much as our society values companion animals, there are still many issues regarding cat and dog overpopulation, spaying and neutering, animal cruelty, feral cats, and exotic pets.
What are the Arguments For and Against Keeping Pets?
Do Animal Rights Activists Want to Take My Pets Away? Because of pet overpopulation, just about all animal activists would probably agree that we should spay and neuter our cats and dogs. But there would be some disagreement if you were to ask whether we should keep and breed cats and dogs if all the shelters were empty and there were good, loving homes available.
Why is the term “guardian” preferable to “owner”?
The state of Rhode Island and several towns across the U.S. have changed the word “owner” to “guardian” in their laws relating to companion animals.
The Truth About Mandatory Spay/Neuter Laws
Some people believe that mandatory spay/neuter laws mean that breeders will be outlawed, and no one will have pets any more. That is absolutely not the case.
Why shouldn’t animals be considered “property” under the law?
Most Americans consider their companion animals to be part of the family, so changing the property status of animals will update the law to reflect societal values.
If we all spay and neuter our cats and dogs, won’t they become extinct?
Cats and dogs will not become extinct because of spay/neuter campaigns, and here's why.
Arguments For and Against Horse Slaughter
While animal advocates argue against horse slaughter, some horse breeders and owners say that horse slaughter is a necessary evil.
Think Twice Before Giving a Live Easter Bunny
Your child may want a live Easter bunny, but are you and your child prepared to care for a live Easter bunny for the next ten years? Includes interview with Susan Mangold, of the House Rabbit Society’s “Make Mine Chocolate!” campaign.
Why Are Horses Sold for Slaughter?
Why are horses sold for slaughter? Unlike farms with cows, pigs and chickens, no one in the US seems to be breeding horses specifically for slaughter, so where do the horses come from?
Dog and Cat Overpopulation
Facts about dog and cat overpopulation, by In Defense of Animals.
Petfinder - Adopt a Rescued Animal
Instead of buying an animal from a store or a breeder, adopt one from a shelter or rescue group! Petfinder includes cats, dogs, birds, rabbits, horses, reptiles and more.
The Animal Rescue Site
Click to give free food and care to a rescued animal at a shelter or sanctuary.
Low Cost Spay/Neuter
Friends of Animals offers low-cost spay/neuter certificates.
Alley Cat Allies
Alley Cat Allies advocates trap/neuter/return for feral cats.
Captive Wild Animal Protection Coalition
The Captive Wild Animal Protection Coalition opposes the keeping of exotic pets.
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