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Pets feel the pinch of foreclosure

June 27, 2008

Foreclosures and rising prices aren’t just taking a toll on people. Pets are feeling the pinch, too.

Shelters across the country are overflowing with pets that were either: a) abandoned and left on their own when their owners lost their homes; b) given to the shelters by owners who lost their homes; c) given to shelters by people who simply can’t afford to care for them anymore.

Many people who must move are left trying to decide what to do with their pets. USA Today wrote about this problem.

Some pet owners are apparently afraid putting their animals, especially older animals, in a shelter will lead to their being euthanized. Instead these well-intentioned, if not misguided, people are leaving their pets in abandoned houses with food and water, or they are turning their pets loose. The USA Today story explains the problems with these options, both of which end up being worse than a shelter.

These stories in the Atlanta Journal Constitution and the New York Times also address the problem of homeless pets.

Some people simply can’t afford to care for their pets. Other people are renting homes or apartments and aren’t allowed to keep their furry friends.

Shelters are overflowing with pets. Many pets are being euthanized because shelters have too many animals to care for and no other option. Some of the stories of the pets, and their families, are heartbreaking. It’s bad enough that people have lost their homes, but then they have to give up pets that they regard as family members.

I’m asking myself what can be done about this situation.

If you are thinking getting a pet, first and foremost look at your budget and make sure you can afford it. Pets can be walking money pits. Make sure you not only have the financial resources for the initial costs and food every month, but also for any emergencies that may arise.

If you decide that you can comfortably afford a pet, consider adopting a pet from a shelter.

When I decided to get a cat several years ago I thought about getting a pure bred cat. Then I saw a Humane Society kitten that I couldn’t resist. He’s a little mischief-maker, but he’s a wonderful and entertaining member of our household. And I feel good knowing that I provided a home for an animal in need.

Check out shelters in your area and see if there’s a future member of your family just waiting for a home.

Oh, I should add one important note for anyone considering a pet … Please make sure that the pet you choose fits with your lifestyle. Too many pets also end up in shelters because someone purchased a particular breed of animal on a whim without researching what might fit in best with their family. Then when the dog is snappish or the cat scratches furniture, it ends up right back in the shelter.

Written by admin · Filed Under Housing, Misc. 

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