The truth about pets abandoned on moving day

It’s a sad truth that every year countless dogs and cats are abandoned by their human companions. Frequently this happens as the result of a move, and in particular, when a person’s new residence doesn’t allow animals.

Abandoned pets
Abandoning dogs and cats is illegal in most states. Nevertheless, many domestic pets are cast-off, either by releasing them into the wild or putting them out on the street. Unfortunately, starvation, and ultimately death, is the fate that typically awaits them.

Pets in shelters
Pets that are forfeited to shelters don’t always fare much better; a circumstance that’s largely due to the fact that animal shelters across the country are grossly overcrowded.

According to the Humane Society of the United States, there are six to eight million dogs and cats that enter shelters each year. The organization approximates that about three million of these animals are euthanized, despite the fact that around 80 percent of them are fit for adoption.

But even pets that aren’t euthanized may face difficulties. Both dogs and cats tend to form strong bonds with their owners, and when this bond is severed, they’re likely to experience a great deal of stress and sadness. It isn’t uncommon for animals in shelters to be depressed to the point of refusing to eat.

What you can do
If you’re in the process of looking for a new home, make sure you find a place that accommodates your pet. And if you want to welcome a dog or cat into your new home, consider adopting one from your local animal shelter.