This may sound horrible but a "put to sleep" death is not the worse thing that can happen. The problem is irresponsible owners that can't afford and should never have pets. I was given a purebred boxer once that was starving, covered in fleas, and had her ears almost eaten off by bugs. It took me weeks of cleaning, feeding and doctoring to get that poor dog back into shape. Not to mention the numerous vet bills. But when all was said and done, she was one beautiful boxer. Her ears were scarred but just a bit, most of the skin and hair grew back. She was also the best dog I ever had. Protective, loyal, and extremely intelligent. The vet said that another week of not being fed and she would have been beyond help.