Together for Animals｜すべての命に、あたたかい未来を

A Future of Warmth for Every Life

Every year, approximately 20,000 dogs and cats are euthanized in Japan. The reasons behind this include issues within the pet industry, excessive breeding practices, and the unfortunate reality of people abandoning their pets too easily.

Most dogs and cats sold in pet shops are under one year old. However, if they remain unsold and grow older, they are either returned to breeders or sent to animal control centers. As a result, certain popular breeds are mass-produced, and those that remain unsold contribute to the growing number of euthanized animals each year.

Some unethical breeders keep dogs and cats in small cages for their entire lives, forcing them to breed repeatedly. When they are no longer able to reproduce, they are often abandoned. In extreme cases, untrained individuals perform C-sections on pregnant animals, resulting in fatal injuries. There have also been cases where animals are deliberately left to starve after they can no longer produce offspring.

Additionally, in pet auctions, dogs and cats are placed in cardboard boxes and sent down a conveyor belt where they are bid on. A past investigation revealed that 20,000 animals died during this process due to inhumane conditions.

Another significant issue is pet abandonment. Some common reasons given for surrendering pets include:

"They don’t behave as I expected."
"I’m moving and can’t take them with me."
"I had a baby and can’t take care of them anymore."

These excuses demonstrate a lack of understanding that pets are lifelong family members.

My Thoughts on Animal Welfare

In Japan, animal welfare and rescue activities are still often seen as something that only a select few can participate in.

But in reality, there are many things that anyone can do. I want to share ways we can help rescue dogs and cats together.

I have been supported by animals throughout my life, and that is why I have always thought about how I can give back to them through my art.

Since 2020, I have been creating and selling charity goods to support rescue cats and dogs. Custom pet portraits are one of these projects, and I donate a portion of my earnings to shelters and rescue organizations.

Even the smallest action can help change the future for these animals. I hope for a world where both people and animals can live together with kindness.

Rethinking the Role of Pet Shops

I am not against pet shops themselves. Many people working in pet shops genuinely love animals. However, I strongly question the system where living beings are displayed and sold like products, allowing for impulse purchases.

The ideal pet shop would not sell live animals but instead provide essential services such as pet food, grooming, veterinary consultations, and adoption support.

Just like the pets sold in pet shops, there are thousands of dogs and cats in shelters waiting for loving homes.

Rethinking the Role of Pet Shops

The ideal pet shop would not sell live animals but instead provide essential services such as pet food, grooming, veterinary consultations, and adoption support.

Just like the pets sold in pet shops, there are thousands of dogs and cats in shelters waiting for loving homes.

What We Can Do

Consider adopting a rescue animal

If you are thinking of welcoming a pet, visit a shelter or adoption event first.
There are many animals waiting for a kind and loving home.

Support animal shelters

Donations of food, supplies, or financial support can greatly help shelters continue their work.
Volunteering your time at a shelter can also make a huge difference.

Spread awareness about responsible pet ownership

Owning a pet means committing to them for life.
Educate others on the importance of responsible pet ownership and encourage adoption over buying.

What Are Animal Shelters?

Animal shelters provide a safe space for dogs and cats who have lost their homes. Most shelters rescue animals from municipal control centers or take in stray kittens born on the streets. To prevent further suffering, some shelters also engage in TNR programs, which help control the stray animal population in a humane way.

What is TNR?

Trap – Capturing stray cats using humane traps.
Neuter – Performing spay/neuter surgery to prevent overpopulation.
Return – Releasing the cats back to their familiar environment.

捕獲器などで野良猫を捕獲し、不妊・去勢手術を行い、元の場所に戻すこと。

In shelters, rescued animals receive medical care, socialization training, and in the case of dogs, leash training to prepare them for adoption.

Most shelters rely heavily on volunteers and donations. I personally volunteered at a rescue facility once a week, helping with cleaning and taking care of the cats. Through this experience, I learned that many shelters operate entirely on donations, yet often struggle with a lack of funds and resources.

The number of rescued animals is overwhelming, and expenses for food, spaying/neutering, and medical treatments add up quickly. Shelters always need support, whether through financial contributions or other means.

Ways to Help

Donate

Financial contributions, food, cat litter, and pet supplies are always appreciated.

Foster Care

Since shelters can only house a limited number of animals, fostering temporarily helps save lives.

Raise Awareness

If someone around you is thinking of getting a pet, introduce them to the idea of adopting a rescue instead of purchasing one.

Volunteer

Helping with cleaning, feeding, or even administration can be a great way to support shelters.

Neonatal Kitten Care

Special volunteers care for newborn kittens, feeding them until they are strong enough for adoption.

Saving One Life Can Change the World Each rescued animal finds a new beginning. By choosing to support shelters, you are helping create a kinder world for both animals and people.

Your small action can make a big difference.

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