The Heartbreaking Reality Of Surrendering Pets: Insights From A Shelter Volunteer

Millions of pets find themselves in shelters every year, a significant number of them due to being surrendered by their owners. A recent TikTok video has highlighted the often-overlooked emotional turmoil faced by these animals, particularly in kill shelters. The video, shared by Emily Gorham, a dedicated pet rescue volunteer, reveals a poignant truth: dogs left behind in shelters experience a profound sense of loss and confusion.

In her video, Gorham shares the heart-wrenching reality of what happens to dogs after they are surrendered. The text overlay reads: "This is what your dog does after you surrender them to a kill shelter. They shut down. They hope it’s you that will walk around that corner. They wait for you to come back. They don’t understand why you left them. They just keep waiting...for you." This powerful message serves as a reminder of the emotional toll that abandonment takes on these beloved pets.

Gorham further emphasizes the need for awareness regarding pet surrenders. Many dogs are brought to the Tulsa Animal Welfare for reasons that may seem trivial, such as wanting a new puppy or claiming that their dog is too active. She urges pet owners to consider their pets' feelings and the consequences of their choices. Her weekly volunteer work sheds light on the grim reality of shelter life, where dogs often display signs of fear and confusion after being abandoned.

A Day in the Life of a Shelter Volunteer

Emily Gorham dedicates her Thursdays to washing and photographing shelter dogs in hopes of increasing their chances of adoption. As a professional dog groomer, she understands the importance of presenting these pets in the best light possible. For the past four years, she and her husband have fostered dogs, demonstrating their commitment to improving animal welfare in their community.

Every week, the Tulsa Animal Welfare receives between 100 to 200 dogs, a staggering number that reflects the urgent need for responsible pet ownership. Gorham points out that the local spay and neuter laws need stricter enforcement to help control the population of abandoned pets. She passionately advocates for better practices among pet owners to prevent unnecessary surrenders.

Through her firsthand observations, Gorham has seen how surrendered dogs often shut down due to the sudden loss of their families. She describes them as “terrified and confused,” which ultimately makes it difficult for them to find new homes. Many dogs remain in shelters longer than necessary, simply because they have lost hope of being reunited with their owners.

The Impact of Animal Surrender on Dogs

According to the Humane Society of Macomb, several factors contribute to the surrender of dogs, including allergies, behavioral issues, and the costs associated with pet care. Understanding these reasons can help prospective pet owners make informed decisions before taking on the responsibility of a pet.

The journey of a surrendered dog is filled with uncertainty. Once they are separated from their familiar surroundings and owners, they often experience emotional distress. Gorham's narrative emphasizes the significance of recognizing the long-term effects of abandoning a pet, which can lead to mental health issues for the animals.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) reports that approximately 6.3 million pets enter U.S. shelters annually, which averages out to around 17,260 pets each day. By January 2023, shelters had taken in 46,807 dogs and cats, illustrating the ongoing need for adoption campaigns and spay/neuter initiatives. Despite the efforts of shelters to reduce euthanasia rates, which currently stand at about 920,000 annually, the demand for responsible pet ownership remains critical.

Community Reactions and Support

Gorham’s TikTok video sparked significant reactions from viewers on social media. Many users expressed outrage at the thought of abandoning pets. One user, named seductivegal60, stated, "If you can’t take care of your beloved pet, find a friend or a rescue group." This sentiment reflects the growing desire among animal lovers to advocate for pets in need.

Other users echoed similar sentiments, urging pet owners to consider alternatives before surrendering their animals. Comments such as, "People who do this should NEVER be allowed to own animals," highlight the community’s distress regarding pet abandonment. It is evident that many people believe that every animal deserves a loving home and that rehoming should be the last resort.

For those contemplating surrendering their pets, it is essential to explore all available options. Many shelters provide resources and support to help keep pets in their homes. Seeking assistance from local organizations or finding new homes through trusted channels can significantly improve the chances of the animal's well-being and future happiness.

Final Thoughts

Emily Gorham's story serves as a poignant reminder of the emotional impact of pet surrender on animals. By sharing her experiences, she encourages a deeper understanding of animal welfare and the responsibilities that come with pet ownership. As a community, we can work together to ensure that fewer animals find themselves in shelters, creating a brighter future for our furry friends.

Let us all take a moment to reflect on our choices as pet owners and advocate for the well-being of animals in need. By being proactive and responsible, we can help reduce the number of pets surrendered to shelters and provide them with the love and care they deserve.

For anyone with funny or heartwarming videos or pictures of their pets, feel free to share them with us at life@newsweek.com! Your beloved pets could be featured in our Pet of the Week lineup.