Aside from helping animals find their forever home, animal shelters have a significant positive impact on the communities they exist in. At the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, we often promote the wonderful benefits of pet ownership, but do you know the benefits of having an animal shelter in your community?
The Significance of Pets in Households
It’s no surprise that around 60% of American families have a dog in their household. In addition to adding love and fun to your home, the presence of pets has been shown to increase holistic well-being. The unconditional love and positive regard that they show their families can even reduce stress and promote positive thinking patterns.
Additionally, the benefits of having a pet aren’t just confined to one household. Pet ownership has a tendency to increase community engagement and serve as the starting point for pleasant social interactions between neighbors and other community members. Whether it’s a friendly encounter during a walk or a casual conversation over the garden fence, pets support first meetings between neighbors. If your family is interested in Hillsborough County pet adoption, take a look at our adoptable pets online or come visit our shelter today! This is often one of the most enjoyable and memorable experiences for families of all kinds across Tampa Bay.
The Economic Impact of Animal Shelters
While we all know the wonderful services that animal shelters can provide for homeless animals in need, many may be surprised to learn that they also help to drive local economies. The presence of an animal shelter promotes business for local veterinarians, pet sitters, pet boarding facilities, groomers, and other pet-centered businesses. With animal shelters in the community, local businesses and entrepreneurs can thrive as a direct result of the demand generated by pet adoptions and ongoing pet needs. And with the kindness of Humane Society bequests from our community, the Humane Society of Tampa Bay can continue boosting our local economy.
Additionally, animal shelters can create career and volunteer opportunities for those in the community. At the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, we have created hundreds of jobs for veterinarians, coordinators, adoption specialists, and more! From shelter staff to volunteers, community members can find purpose and fulfillment here.
Safety Trends in Communities With Animal Shelters
If you haven’t already been convinced of the incredible benefits that animal shelters have on the community, research also indicates that neighborhoods with accessible animal shelters tend to be safer. The presence of pets, particularly dogs, serves as a deterrent to criminal activities in family neighborhoods.
Communities with a higher pet population experience a notable decrease in crime rates. The responsibility and care associated with pet ownership often translate into increased vigilance and a shared commitment to maintaining a safe environment for community members and neighbors alike.
HSTB in the Tampa Community
At the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, we are proud to be an integral part of our community. From helping to grow families with our pet adoption services to helping promote our local economy, we are proud to work with our neighbors to help end animal homelessness and provide comfort and care for animals in need. As a private, independent, non-profit, 501(c)3 animal shelter and veterinary hospital that operates independently of the Humane Society of the United States, the Humane Society of Tampa Bay relies solely on the generosity of donors and help from volunteers. With a generous Humane Society bequest, HSTB can continue improving the lives of our community members – animal and human!
