Tragedy for Pets, Too
A recent story from Associated Press about pets abandoned in California sadly is repeated across the country. It’s awful when the current economic situation causes people to lose their homes--and some owners have left behind pets. Shelters have been overwhelmed. Cats have been rescued from dire conditions when found starving in these homes, or left to fend for themselves on the streets. Some die before they can be helped. I cried reading these reports.
How sad, and how devastating it must be for people faced with terrible choices. They may not be able to find housing that allows them to bring their cat. I know the folks reading this would never consider leaving behind a beloved family member. Kitties trapped inside foreclosed houses sometimes starve before they’re found, and we all know what happens if a housecat gets dumped outside. *shudder* If you know about such a thing, don’t hesitate--contact your animal welfare group to get help.
In fact, abandoning a pet is against the law. In my state (Texas) abandonment is punishable by a $4000 fine and up to a year in jail. You don’t get a free pass because your finances or living arrangements have changed.
I pray that none of you ever must face such a terrible situation. When you do have to move, plan early and start checking for rental properties at least six weeks before you plan to go. Check with local animal welfare organizations to see if they keep a list of ‘animal friendly’ accommodations in your area.
Prove to your future landlord that your cats cause no problems, and you’re the purr-fect pet parent. Put together a pet portfolio about each kitty (hey, it works for d*gs, too!) that includes veterinary records and recommendation letters from the vet or past landlords.
Also, make sure you get any agreement in writing. I’ve heard too often about kindly rental managers “looking the other way” and allowing cats--and then a new manager or landlord takes over and kicks everybody out. Don’t let that happen to you!
The San Francisco SPCA’s “open door” program (www.sfspca.org) has some great information and templates for putting together your pet portfolio.
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Comments (1)
Marjorie February 9, 2008 2:58 PM
I had to move when I got evicted and had to take my cat to the local SPCA in Philipsburg, PA and all I got was I was a bad pet owner, I had no money and down on my luck, and all they did was repremand me!
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