While the phrase "diamonds are a girl's best friend," made famous by Carol Channing in the Broadway hit "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes" and immortalized by Marilyn Monroe in the film adaptation, has …
This item is available in full to subscribers.
Please log in to continue |
While the phrase "diamonds are a girl's best friend," made famous by Carol Channing in the Broadway hit "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes" and immortalized by Marilyn Monroe in the film adaptation, has endured for decades, it's clear that for many in the Heart of Dixie, their loyal canine companions hold the real sparkle.
In a state where nearly 60% of households have a pet, almost half of those homes include a dog, according to 2024 data from World Population Review. National Dog Day, celebrated this past Monday, Aug. 26, is a perfect occasion to recognize the special bond between Alabamians and their dogs.
Established in 2004 by pet and family lifestyle advocate Colleen Paige, National Dog Day aims to spotlight the importance of adopting dogs from rescue centers and shelters. The day also encourages responsible dog ownership, promoting the welfare of all breeds — pure and mixed — and ensuring that every dog has the opportunity to live a safe, happy and abuse-free life.
Beyond companionship, dogs offer mental health benefits to their owners. In Alabama, where community ties are strong and family is paramount, the positive impact of having a pet is felt. According to mentalhealth.org.uk, caring for a dog can significantly improve physical activity levels, reduce anxiety, boost self-confidence and provide much-needed structure to daily routines.
Michael Graham, executive director at The Haven in Fairhope, shared how they have seen the impact of ownership of dogs in our community.
"We've seen countless examples of how adopting a dog not only changes the pet's life but also brings immense joy and healing to the adopter's life," Graham told Gulf Coast Media. "Whether it's helping someone cope with loss, providing companionship or just bringing daily joy, the impact is profound."
Research from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) supports this view, revealing that interacting with animals can lower cortisol levels, decrease blood pressure and reduce feelings of loneliness.
Kimberly Stewart, shelter manager and adoption coordinator at The Haven, shared a recent success story about an adoptee who made a profound impact on his new family.
Jolly Charlie, a once fearful and unhealthy puppy, found his forever home with the Slade family. Charlie, who now enjoys a life filled with adventure and affection, has not only brought joy to his new family but also helped his owner, Terri Slade, heal from the grief of losing her beloved Schnauzer mix, Sophie.
According to Slade, "Charlie literally saved my life."
The Slades celebrated Charlie's first birthday this June at Lake Martin, complete with a party hat and plenty of fun. Whether he's sunbathing in his yard, swimming in the lake or chasing squirrels at their beach house, Charlie embraces every moment with joy and curiosity. His journey from a feral puppy to a cherished family member is a testament to the deep bond that can form between rescue dogs and their new families.
While heartwarming stories like Charlie's are common, there remains a pressing need for more people to consider adoption. Best Friends Animal Society, a leading national animal welfare organization, released data showing that in 2023, 207,400 dogs were killed in U.S. shelters simply because they didn't have homes. Alabama's no-kill shelters, like The Haven, work to prevent this fate, but the challenge persists as 61,653 dogs entered Alabama animal shelters in 2023 and 73% of them were saved.
"Despite saving 83% of dogs that entered U.S. shelters in 2023, the number of dogs unnecessarily dying increased by 30%," said Julie Castle, CEO, Best Friends Animal Society. "Roughly seven million people in America are planning to acquire a pet this year, and if just 6% more people chose to adopt versus purchase their pets, we would end the killing of dogs and cats in our nation's shelters."
According to Graham, while purebreds don't cross their doors very often, they are finding more people are drawn towards adopting mixes.
"As for trends, we've noticed that more people are leaning toward adopting mixed-breed dogs in general. There's a growing appreciation for the unique qualities and temperaments that mixed-breeds offer," Graham said. "Plus, adopting a shelter pet comes with the added benefit of giving a deserving animal a second chance at life."
For those unable to adopt, there are still many ways to support the cause. Spaying and neutering pets is crucial, as it helps reduce the number of animals entering shelters. Fostering is another great option, providing dogs with a temporary home and helping them acclimate to family life. Donations — whether monetary or in the form of supplies like food, blankets or towels — are always needed, and volunteering at local shelters can make a significant difference.
