ABC News recently reported that in 2008, over 800,000 homes went into foreclosure. Now, imagine that each of those homeowners had just one pet and that at least half of them cannot take their pet to a new location...that would leave 400,000 pets homeless! What happens to them? Most apartments and condominiums have regulations regarding breeds, weight, or pets are banned altogether. It is estimated that the current economy is responsible for nearly seventy percent of the animals being surrendered to shelters. Unfortunately, many are simply being abandoned and left to die. Animals have become the silent victims of this country's current economic woes.
Consider Your Options
The AVMA suggests that if you must give up your pet, you should first look for a friend, neighbor, co-worker, or family member that is willing to take it, even if it's just until you get back on your feet. If that isn't possible, check with local shelters and rescue groups. Don't abandon your animal. It is illegal, inhumane and needless. The animal has a much better chance of getting adopted if it is placed in a shelter.
Many people don't realize that they have the option of taking their pet to a shelter. They are often embarrassed or are afraid the animal will face euthanasia. Jake White, Senior Vice President of Communications and Technology for the SPCA of Central Florida, recently stated in an interview that the shelter will always make room for dogs and cats surrendered by their owners. “All animals are treated equally here. All an owner needs to bring is the pet and we'll take it from there.” And what about how long the animal can stay? “As long as the animal remains happy, healthy, and poses no threat to themselves or others, they will stay until they are adopted,” says White. It costs about $250.00 to care for an animal while it is at the facility and while they rely heavily on donations, an owner is not required to pay a fee upon surrender. For someone dealing with a financial crisis, this is vital information.
Helping in Other Ways
White says that pets need five basic things: food, water, shelter, exercise, and love and the SPCA fills the bill. He commends the shelter's fleet of volunteers for their assistance in giving the animals so much love and calls them “the backbone of the agency.” He also stated that foster parents are increasingly important for those animals that just need a little extra care prior to finding their forever homes. Of course, monetary donations are always needed.
Giving up a pet is a difficult and emotional, but there are good options for you both. If you must surrender an animal, don't beat yourself up. The animal won't hold it against you and chances are you will both start over and be just fine.
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