What Happens To My Pets After Foreclosure?
With money troubles forcing so many families from their homes, many are turning to friends and relatives for shelter.
But where does that leave your beloved furry companions when the new temporary residence doesn't allow pets or a family member is allergic?
Skimming through the Star Ledger one morning, I came across a great article about this amazing place. Seer Farms, a shelter in Jackson Township, opened only just last year, provides temporary care for our four legged victims of the recession. The nonprofit shelter provides temporary accommodations for pets whose families are struggling with foreclosure, domestic violence, health crisis or other hardships, while their owners try to get their lives back in order.
Anyone who's ever had a pet knows how quickly they become a member of the family. I've had dogs and cats my whole life. It's devastating to lose an old dog who's gone jogging with you every day since he's a pup...or cuddles up next to you on the couch when you're watching a scary movie. Or a cat who wakes you up by licking your face every morning just 5 minutes before your alarm goes off... even on Sundays!
"Two-thirds of all households have pets - so two-thirds of the foreclosures involve pets," said Stephen Zawistowski, science adviser to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. The economic crisis has hit shelters nationwide. Fewer people want the expense of adopting pets and financial donations are drying up. U.S. animal shelters take in between 6 & 8 million unwanted pets in an average year, according to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. But the recession has added an estimated 2 million more animals abandoned.
At Seer Farms, each owner is asked to pay $50 a month per pet. But families in financial distress often pay little or nothing, according to the Star Ledger. Families are asked to stay involved with their pets, making weekend visits. Owners are also required to commit to a timetable for taking back their pets.
If you or someone you know are facing Foreclosure, don't leave your furry friends behind! Take them down to your local shelter and ask if they'll offer temporary assistance until you get back on your feet. Or if you're a New Jersey native, stop by Seer Farms in Jackson Township.
If you found this information useful or have questions, please feel free to call, email or text me.
(SFR) Short Sale & Foreclosure Specialist certified by the National Association of Realtors®
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