Foreclosures Are Forcing Many to Give Away Pets
Foreclosures are largely responsible for the economic downturn and this is causing many to give away pets as they cannot cope with their own lives. It is often a heart rending decision.
One of the animal victims is Julie a pit bullterrier. She had to be removed to a home in Orange County because her owner could not look after her anymore when indifferent health and huge medical bills ripped apart life. The pit bull had to go on languishing for months in the kennel as the breed has a certain stigma attached to it.
The same story with variations is being enacted all over the country. Financial downturn is forcing many to part with beloved pets and this is leaving a psychological mark on children.
Experts advise that one should think in terms of the long term welfare of the pets. As soon as one begins to get signals about financial troubles it is better to hunt for a good home while there is time. There are many other reasons that may cause this decision to be taken – allergies, illnesses in the family or any other personal trauma.
The first thing is to look around in the extended family and among known friends someone who will keep the pet. The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty estimates that about 1 million dogs and cats are facing potential danger of becoming homeless. If the animals are given away well ahead then the children will not go on suffering about what happened to the beloved pet. This unknown factor can be especially agonizing. But if the new home is known then the pain can be eased maybe with some occasional visits. That would be the ideal solution.
Riverside County is one of the worst affected regions. The Riverside County Department is fervently requesting evicted foreclosure victims either to somehow keep their pets or to find someone who will house them for the time being at least. More than cats it is the dogs that pose greater problems. The shelter has made a list of all the apartment units where dogs will not be refused. So long as the dog can be taken for a walk lack of garden or yard space is no problem.
Alan Entin formerly of American Psychological Association said, “Giving up a pet may be the worst thing. They really help reduce stress," he says. Losing a pet when life is already stressful may just make things worse.”