Abandoned Pets

From time to time I see an uptick in news stories relating to abandoned dogs. Owners and families experiencing changing living conditions such as losing a home, having to relocate, etc. may leave a pet behind if they can no longer afford its care and feeding. Unfortunately, in some cases dogs and pets may be abandoned - left alone in vacant homes or yards when owners leave. Sometimes they may be taken to a rescue facility. But leaving them tied off to a fence, or in a crate, also leaves them without adequate (or any) shelter, food and water.

Worse still, some dogs are abandoned in the country, wood,s etc. Some may think this keeps a dog out of a shelter where it may be euthanized, but leaving a dog that was a pet abandoned in unfamiliar and harsh surroundings is not something most pets are prepared for. Dogs in these situations can be struck by vehicles, inured while foraging for food and resources, become ill drinking contaminated or bacterial laden water, and worse.

If you or someone you know cannot keep a pet, going through a local rescue or municipal shelter is the best option for that pet. BUT - be sure to follow their intake guidelines! Doing so will make certain the pet being left will be cared for, and have a best chance for adoption/rescue. Rescues always appreciate background information on a dog being surrendered (health, temperament, etc) vs. just finding it left on their doorstep in the morning.