SHELTER FROM THE STORM

Today I am thinking about the many cats and dogs turned into our over-crowded shelters. The MSPCA reported that there was a 45% increase in pets dropped off this year. We know that most of these "surrenders' were the result of the housing crisis. Many families had to down-size, perhaps renting in no-pet homes, or move in with relatives in already crowded situations. An alarming impediment to a safe drop-off is that many shelters require a "take-in" fee for as much as $50. It doesn't take an economist to figure out that if an individual, who may have lost his job, or a family abandoning their homestead, had an extra $50, they might not be leaving a pet behind. Rescuers have been overwhelmed with stories of pets left behind in yards or on porches. The latest horror tales are about dogs apparently dropped off in state parks. It's not clear if former owners believe they will be found by campers and fed, or if they actually think they'll hunt for food. A similar fate often awaits cats, who are thrown from cars "out in the country". The presumption is that they can hunt for small rodents and survive on their own. As a friend of mine, who has rescued many desperate animals, said, "They would have been better off left with a can-opener since that's the only way they know food has been provided."......So.....If you yourself, or a neighbor, stranger or friend, mentions a dilemma with a pet, try to get in touch with local rescue groups which may have suggestions as to temporary care. Many are listed on http://www.petfinder.com/. No-kill shelters are full. Community-based organizations have strict guidelines as to how long they can keep animals, as we all know. At least, if you must use a shelter, provide all medical information with your pet. That way, a potential owner will feel more assured that the pet is ready to be adopted. It will give your special critter a fighting chance to end up in a loving home...... ( Cause for Paws is the group I work with in Mattapoisett. You can contact them at Petfinder or at 508-758-9202.)