Unexpected Katrina Side-Effect: Puppy Baby Boom

Apparently, the unexpected consequences of Hurricane Katrina continue to surprise residents returning to the storm-torn area. The newest discovery? All those pets left behind after the storm did not die. Instead, with fences blown away and no one around to say "No," they rediscovered the joys of doggy marriage.

Puppies are popping up everywhere amid the rubble left by Hurricane Katrina — and animal welfare workers on the northern Gulf Coast fear it is only the start of a big boom in dog births...About 300 animals had to be euthanized in November at the shelter, High said, but all were too old, sick or aggressive to be adopted. New owners have adopted 378 other dogs and cats.
As many as 75 new animals arrive daily, and there's no immediate end in sight.
"It's frustrating," said High, who has worked every day but Thanksgiving since Katrina. "The phone does not stop ringing."

Another reminder to spay or neuter your pets. At the moment, this baby boom is producing much cuteness and adoptability. But in a few months, these puppies will be old enough to begin having to fend for themselves. And those are the conditions that lead to packs of wild dogs.