12,751 human babies were born in Austin in 2002. At least 90,000 kittens and puppies were born here during the same period.

    Unlike their human counterparts, the vast majority of Austin's animal babies were unwanted. Only about 10 percent ever found homes. Most of the rest ­ probably about 50,000 ­ died from injury, disease, or starvation. The "lucky ones" (more than 11,000) were humanely euthanized at Town Lake Animal Center.

    But enough puppies and kittens survived to ensure that the cycle would continue. Dogs and cats are prolific breeders. For example, two reproducing cats (one male, one female) could theoretically become 12,000 reproducing cats in five years, if all the kittens survived. This very high rate of reproduction is responsible for the quiet tragedy of our dog and cat over-population problem.

    The solution is straightforward:

   (1) Spay and/or neuter your own dogs and cats. Don't fall prey to the easy rationalization that if your pet makes babies, you will find them all good homes. Even if you do, you are condemning to homelessness or death other puppies or kittens who otherwise would have gone to those same good homes. Vets in the Hyde Park area, such as Central Park Animal Hospital, offer spay/neuter surgery and other pet healthcare services at reasonable rates.

   (2) Spread the word. Make sure your friends and family all spay/neuter their pets.

   (3) Support a "TNR" (Trap, Neuter, Release) program for homeless animals in Hyde Park. The SpayAustin Campaign will provide knowledgeable volunteers, all necessary equipment, and other assis- tance free of charge. For more information, please call SpayAustin at 417-8673.