Posted: March 7, 2009, 5 a.m. EST
Homeowners may not be the only residents at risk of losing their living spaces during the nation’s economic crisis. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, 500,000 to 1 million cats and dogs in the United States are at risk of becoming homeless. This estimate is 10 to 20 percent higher than the 5 million dogs and cats that enter shelters each year, according to the ASPCA.
In light of this news, the ASPCA urges dog lovers to support local animal shelters by adopting a dog, donating used blankets, towels, or tennis balls to a local animal shelter or rescue group, volunteering to foster adoptable dogs, and helping other dog owners in their communities to take care of their companions.
For dog owners who face financial difficulties and possible foreclosure themselves, the ASPCA recommends asking friends, family and neighbors to temporarily foster their pets; making sure a new rental property allows dogs; contacting local animal shelters, humane societies, or rescue groups in advance to ensure the dog has a place to go if they can no longer be cared for.