Silent Victims: Abandoned Pets

We know about the impact that foreclosure has on homeowners and their families. Foreclosures are often linked to a financial tragedy that impacts the homeowners in many ways. But what about the impact on their pets? When a family can no longer afford their home, many simply leave their pets behind. These abandoned pets are the newest unfortunate victims of these challenging economic times.

The Sad Truth

Today's pets are extremely domesticated. They are completely dependant on us for their survival. And we depend on them for companionship, unconditional love and acceptance. We value them as a member of the family and we trust them to act appropriately around our loved ones.

But the sad truth is that without us, they are helpless. Abandoned pets cannot survive on their own. Most of them cannot find enough food by themselves and will starve to death. Others, depending on which part of the country they live in, are not equipped to deal with outdoor climates and will perish due to heat exhaustion or extreme cold.

Without people to care for them, pets can easily get sick or contract diseases, especially when they are attempting to survive in the wild. A simple illness or a case of the worms could easily be cured with a pill or a trip to the veterinarian's office. But with no on to care for them, their conditions worsen to the point where they can no longer survive.

Abandoned pets face even more challenges: in populated areas, many abandoned pets are tragically killed when struck by cars or trucks. In more rural areas, these pets are easy prey for wild predators and are often injured or killed in fights with other animals.

Even if these pets are found and brought to a shelter, their chance for survival is not good. Many pets in shelters, especially older pets, are never placed with a new owner and must eventually be euthanized in order to make room for new abandoned pets.

You Can Make a Difference

If you've ever owned a cat or a dog for any significant period of time, then you should know just how much these pets really depend on your ability to care for them. They require a good deal of attention on a daily basis. But you also know it's worth it, because in return they give you unconditional companionship and love.

Now you can make a difference and help save abandoned pets. When considering getting a new pet, always seek out an animal shelter. Adopting a pet is one way to make a big difference. Click here to find shelters in your state and find out how you can get involved. With your help these shelters can save more pets.