When it comes to homeless animals, statistics are dismal. There are simply too many unwanted dogs and cats in the U.S. One study showed that, for every person in the country, there are two dogs and seven cats that need homes. That means a lot of them are living on the street or residing in a shelter.

The dog pound has long been a source of negative opinion, with the image of dogs and cats imprisoned in tiny cells awaiting the reprieve of adoption or the threat of euthanasia. These places still exist, but fortunately, many animal lovers have championed the cause and a spate of no-kill shelters have become popular.

A no-kill shelter will take dogs in and foster them out until they can be adopted to good homes. There are also many animal rescues dotting the country, for specific breeds or sizes of dogs. These shelters and rescues are a great place to start your search for the perfect pup if you are looking for a certain breed.

If you have decided to give up your dog for any reason, the most humane thing you can do, short of placing him in another good home yourself, is to find a no-kill shelter or rescue that will take him in. Don’t abandon him up in the mountains or take him to the local humane society. Ask about the shelter’s kill policy and make sure the accommodations are at least adequate. It’s the very least you can do.