The physical and emotional difficulties often suffered by Denver homeowners dealing with the foreclosure process can be compounded when the additional dilemma of what to do with family pets is thrown into the mix. As mentioned in a previous blog, No Paws Left Behind is a Houston-based organization which performs “foreclosure animal rescue,” saving and sheltering animals who are 
abandoned by their owners. Here are some additional tips and important things to remember from the American Humane Association:
Don't leave your pets behind if you must vacate your home. They can't survive on their own if you leave them in the vacated property, or if you set them loose.
If you can't take your pets with you, take some simple steps to find safe placement for them.
- Check with family, friends, coworkers, and neighbors; ask if they are willing to care for your pets until you're settled.
- Ask your vet if they're willing to provide low-cost boarding. If not, see if they're willing to set up a payment plan for you.
- If temporary placement isn't an option, visit www.petfinder.com to search for shelters and rescue organizations that don't euthanize adoptable animals. This will provide you with peace of mind, knowing that your pets will be safe until they are adopted into a new home. Some shelters may even offer to house your pets for a specified period of time at no cost, or at a reduced cost, while you find new housing, so you can be reunited with your pets. Always ask if this is an option.
- Surrendering your pet to an open-admission shelter is always a possibility, but remember, these shelters must accept all animals that are brought in. If the shelter is overcrowded, they may be forced to euthanize your pet.
The Humane Association also points out some of the potential legal ramifications of abandoning your pets:
- Whether you choose to leave pets indoors (even with food and water) or release them outdoors, state criminal animal-cruelty laws pertaining to abandonment or neglect may apply.
- If you abandon your pets (even if you've arranged for someone to check on them) you may still be in violation of criminal animal-cruelty laws. In addition, when the mortgage lender takes possession of the home, your pets will be removed, leaving them at risk of an uncertain future that may include euthanasia.
Facing foreclosure can be devastating, but there are options. If you're a homeowner who wants to avoid foreclosure in Denver and you need to know the available alternatives, call the Bandy Team today. We're your local experts, and we can help you explore your options. Let us help you find the best possible outcome for your situation.
Marianne Bandy
Comments(1)