Upon opening my Sunday edition of the Plain Dealer, I was disheartened to discover an Associated Press article that seemed to champion the cause of purebred dogs (“We are Americans, but we love our Frenchies. And Labs and goldens,” March 24) — marking the second feature of its kind in just a fortnight (“Tips for finding the perfect purebred pup for your family,” March 17).
The expansive feature on March 24 showcased photographs, delved into the histories of various breeds, and cited the American Kennel Club, a for-profit organization. Concluding the piece were a few brief paragraphs that touched upon shelter animals, including a nod to the approximately one million dogs that sadly remained unadopted over the past year.
I am making a heartfelt appeal to The Plain Dealer: it’s time to shine a spotlight on shelter animals with the same vigor. I urge you to highlight local rescues and shelters, along with the animals they strive to save — those lost, forsaken creatures yearning for a sliver of hope, a chance at life. By promoting awareness of the numerous pets awaiting adoption, whose lives teeter on the edge of uncertainty, The Plain Dealer can play a pivotal role in altering the fate of these homeless animals.
Let’s not fail them.
Cynthia Humphreville,
Lakewood