The Rising Number of Abandoned Dogs and Cats

It's really amazing in a time of adversity the many reasons people have for "dropping" everything, including a loyal pet, to get themselves "on track" and into the swing of conventionality, that is the routine of car, home and job. Too often a pet is regarded as insignificant. Many of us may be really surprised to realize that the most noble, dominant and prominent figureheads as well as a "low man on the totem pole" really aren't concerned about anybody or their pets, whether or not he or she has one for him or herself. Has ownership become more about status and less about care? In simple terms, our kindness seems to be acceptable if we care for our own animals, but as far as remedies for the guy or gal next door, forget it because you just wouldn't believe what some have to say.

Talking to some local pet owners, acquaintances, etc. I was brought to a rude awakening. Apparently, nobody is worthy of owning a pet other than our own selves. While leafing through apartment and home for rent listings I found in some areas landlords or sellers in the case of condominiums will not accept prospects with pets while in other demographic areas there are as many options for pet owners as for those without. Currently, there are pet day care centers charging minimal amounts for services, kennels, pet sitter listings in the area newspapers, yelllow pages and flyers, which also means there is no reason for anybody to leave a pet abandoned because of job responsibilities. As far as a dog barking at an unwelcome intruder, it's their job just as yours or mine is in keeping our homes tidy, paying the bills and carrying on with our own responsibilities. Close neighbors can be more patient and accept a barking dog as a warning of a visitor or intruder for themselves also.

Unfortunately during the housing inflation and the unfortunate foreclosures of some of the most reputable people's homes, pets are being left behind. The shelters can't even keep up with the vast numbers of animals requiring homes and employees of these shelters are very frank about the use of euthanasia in the case of overflow of pets due to lack of solutions. But remember, these are not "pests" we are talking about, they are our "pets."

Some of the most aggressive animals imaginable can be dociled by play and guidance at certified kennels and by dog obedience organizations. The loyal cats and dogs so many of us look forward to spending time with after a busy day are frequently tamed into the playful and bright animals so many of us like to own. Most are just plain born that way with just a little bit of love from mom or dad.

Then think twice before turning your back on your animal and realize the impact of one action could result in a deprived asset to our society and its great American icons, the family's loyal pet whether it be a dog or cat. Think again for their sake.