Foreclosures Affect Animals, Too

Yesterday, on National Public Radio's Fresh Air program, Terri Gross interviewed a spokesperson for the Humane Society of the United States about the pet abandonment crisis brought on by the large rate of foreclosure in the nation. We know from the stories we're reading, that this is affecting us locally. It sickened me to hear stories of people who had deserted their pets, leaving them behind in empty houses. Some of those pets suffered horrible deaths, as they tried frantically to escape, then survived on drywall and whatever else they could fill their stomachs with until death brought relief.

That story made me wonder what we can be doing to help. Shelters and rescue groups are crying out for volunteers to help with the overwhelming number of abandoned pets. But is there something we can be doing to prevent the pets from becoming homeless? Talking to individiuals we know who are in financial distress, offering help with petfood and care, whatever else they may need to ease the burden. The Humane Society gives free pet food to people who can't afford it. There are lowcost vaccination programs like ACT. My husband suggested we check abandoned houses for pets who may have been left behind. At the very least, we could help find shelter for pets before they are deserted. People who feel desperate may not have the energy to see that their pets have a safe home. Before this economic downturn is over, I'm sure we'll see rising numbers of people and animals in need. Existing programs are already overwhelmed, trying to aid those who are suffering. It's time for us all to step up and offer what help we can.