With animal shelters getting more and more overcrowded, it’s heartbreaking to see so many dogs needing to be adopted. Sadly, more and more companion dogs seem to be disposed of too easily by their former owners. There surely must be extenuating circumstances for surrendering one’s dog to the shelter. But when I hear reasons like “I got a divorce,” or “I just don’t want it anymore,” I can’t help but feel a surge of anger. Didn’t these former owners think about the responsibilities of pet ownership before they got their dogs? Some don’t do the proper research when choosing a breed and then are later disappointed that their lifestyles is not in synch with their pets’ (“I really don’t have the time to walk Renny twice a day”). Being a dog owner is a serious commitment.

Dogs are living beings, dependent on us—their owners—for food, shelter, and companionship. In exchange, they bestow on us their unconditional loyalty and affection. They are more than a simple possession to be given up like clothes we’ve outgrown. Here’s hoping that more people honor the their commitments to their furry friends.