Facing Foreclosure - It's is Not an Excuse for Abandoning Your Pets!

This is a story that we have seen too often and one that I have written about previously.  It is one of irresponsible people treating animals as though they are unwanted pieces of furniture. 

In a recent article describing events in Granite Falls, Washington 31 dead "pets" were found in an abandoned foreclosed home.  I use the term pets guardedly since it is difficult to believe that anyone who regards an animal as a beloved pet would treat it in such a callous way. 

A 65-year-old woman owned the home and lived there with her 36-year-old son until they were forced to vacate the premises. The bank foreclosed in October and it is unclear exactly how long these animals were left completely unattended. 

They were discovered when a locksmith reported a death odor.  Investigators opened the doors to find bodies literally strewn everywhere. These "pets" were subjected to and were trying to survive in unimaginable conditions. 

In the first place, the decision to bring an animal into your home should be one that is carefully thought out. You are taking on the responsibility of a life, one that will depend on you for food and care.  I just cannot comprehend making a mistake like this one 31 times. 

Secondly, there are alternatives for those who face foreclosure and have pets in their homes. Services like Petfinder.com and No Paws Left Behind are websites that deal specifically with the issue of misplaced pets.  There are also public facilities like the animal rescue league and SPCA. 

Another organization dedicated to saving the lives of unwanted animals is ForeclosurePets.org. I spoke with the organizer, Scott Lanz when I wrote the post, "The Furry Side of Foreclosures." They have a full service for matching people up with animals who would otherwise be abandoned.

Do I feel for this lady and her unfortunate circumstances? Absolutely. Anyone who is put out of their home due to foreclosure is a sympathetic figure. 

However, animals are innocent and they have no voice. They need someone to speak up for them.

 

"Facing Foreclosure - It's not an Excuse for Abandoning Your Pets!"

This post was written by 

Claudette Millette, Broker, Owner, The Buyers' Counsel - (508) 881-6230

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