Brilliant minds in the advertising industry led by The Ad Council joined forces with compassionate groups The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) and Maddie's Fund to increase awareness of pet adoption from animal shelters across the United States.
Called The Shelter Pet Project, the campaign aims to break the stereotype perception about animals that end up in shelters. It is also a call to action for people to consider adoption of shelter pets instead of buying from pet stores or other sources.
The Shelter Pet Project was launched in mid-2009 and includes a public service announcement featuring a talking dog who was ditched by his owner and explaining that not all animals that end up in shelters are "crazy or emotionally damaged." The Shelter Pet Project's website offers vast resources and useful links for anyone who is looking for the perfect pet and a forum to discuss questions about pet ownership.
Statistics from the HSUS and Maddie's Fund reveal that eight million pets enter shelters and rescue groups each year. Three million of these pets are healthy and treatable but are euthanized due to lack of adoption.
I commend the advertising industry for taking this initiative. Advertising can be a powerful medium to influence or change public's perception and I am glad that this industry realizes the big help that homeless animals need. Help spread the word about The Shelter Pet Project. Visit their website and learn how you too can be a voice for the homeless animals.
