A very sad unexpected victim of the recent housing and economic downturn are pets. According to a report by MSNBC, the number of dogs left at shelters by loving owners has risen 25 fold in the last few years.
“Their pet is the last thing someone wants to give up,” says a spokesman for the Humane Society. But difficult financial times and people losing their homes has forced many pet owners to give up their animals as the owners move into apartments or with family. And as financial aid and donations to animal shelters has dropped, the shelters are feeling the pinch.
What can you do? If you are considering getting a dog or a cat, consider visiting a local shelter. Mixed breeds do make wonderful pets, but for anyone seeking a pure bred, you chances of finding one at a local shelter are better than ever. According to PetFinder.com, 25% of the adoptable animals these days from shelters and rescues are pure bred animals. You can get a pure bred at a fraction of the cost.
Worried about the health or temperament of a shelter pet? Reputable shelters do a great job of caring for the animals left with them. Dogs and cats usually have been checked out by a veterinarian and are up to date on immunizations. Temperaments don’t change too easily, so when you visit a shelter, interact with the dog or cat that interests you. If they behave well at the shelter, there is no reason to think that will change when you get home. If anything, rescued pets usually behave better after adjusting to a loving, nurturing home. They quickly learn to love and protect the owners that take them in.
What are the benefits of taking in a shelter pet? You feel a sense of fulfillment knowing you saved a life and an improved quality of life from the unconditional love and companionship that a pet can bring.
According to PetFinder.com, these are the top names for pets:
2011's Most Popular Adoptable-Dog Names: 1. Buddy, 2. Max, 3. Daisy, 4. Bella, 5. Lucy, 6. Molly, 7. Charlie, 8. Jack, 9. Sadie, 10. Rocky
2011's Most Popular Adoptable-Cat Names: 1. Lucy, 2. Smokey, 3. Bella, 4. Charlie, 5. Tiger, 6. Oreo, 7. Daisy, 8. Molly, 9. Max, 10. Midnight
What would you name your new dog or cat?
To adopt a pet in our community, contact the Montgomery County SPCA. Someone special is waiting.
~Lisa
Contact Scott Loper, Associate Broker, Realtor®, RE/MAX Realty Group at 215-513-1333 for help buying or selling a home in Lansdale, Harleysville, Hatfield, Souderton, Skippack, Collegeville, North Wales and the surrounding areas of Montgomery County of Pennsylvania. To Search for Homes For Sale in Montgomery County Click Here.
Foreclosure Dogs & Cats - Copyright © 2012, The Scott Loper Team, All rights reserved.
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