Whereas, declaring the month of October to be Adopt a Shelter Pet Month in Wisconsin will encourage pet adoption at local animal shelters and raise awareness of the strain felt by local animal shelters because of the faltering economy and an overpopulation of animals, including dogs, cats, pet birds, and small reptiles; and

Whereas, many of these animals are euthanized because they are not reclaimed by their owners or adopted by new owners; and

Whereas, young, healthy, and friendly animals are often euthanized simply because there are not enough good homes for them, making it more important than ever to help local animal shelters by adopting a pet; and

Whereas, pet ownership has been shown to promote a healthy lifestyle by encouraging exercise and socialization; and

Whereas, studies indicate that children who interact with pets have higher self-esteem and enhanced social skills, and can cope better with their emotions; and

Whereas, adopting a pet from a shelter and caring for that animal for the rest of its life is a responsible way to help reduce animal shelter overcrowding; and

Whereas, Wisconsin and the nation have an enormous problem with animal overpopulation, a problem that worsens as the economy declines; and

Whereas, shelter animals are usually sterilized prior to being released to new owners, thus reducing the problem of overpopulation; and

Whereas, state and local budget reductions have the potential to increase the strain on local animal shelter systems, threatening the lives of thousands of animals; and

Whereas, adopting pets from a local animal shelter is one way the people of Wisconsin can make a difference not only in their own lives, but also in the lives of animals in need; now, therefore, be it