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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For more information contact:
Cyndi Hoffman, 770-254-2355
City of Newnan Animal Warden
As Times Get Tough, City of Newnan Animal Warden Asks Families Facing Foreclosure: “Please, Don’t Leave Your Pets Behind”
Newnan, February 27 – As the subprime mortgage crisis has devastated homeowners and the economy, it has brought with it a troubling trend: pets abandoned after home foreclosures.
The ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) wants to remind pet owners that they have options when facing economic woes.
The loss of a home is devastating and can only be made worse by having to also leave behind a beloved family pet.
The City of Newnan Animal Warden’s office wants to remind pet owners that investigating alternatives in advance is the best way to make an informed decision.”
“If pet owners anticipate foreclosure, we advise planning ahead to find a suitable solution for their cat or dog,” said Cyndi Hoffman, City of Newnan animal warden. “Even though options in these cases are often limited and less than ideal, making an informed decision ahead of time is a much better than simply leaving the pet behind in an abandoned home.”
The Animal Warden office offers this advice for people who are faced with foreclosure and the loss of their pets:
- Check with friends, family and neighbors to see if someone can provide temporary foster care for your pet until you get back on your feet. Agree to a specific time frame, and check on the pet regularly;
- If you are moving into a rental property, make sure pets are allowed and get permission in advance—and in writing; and
- Contact your local animal shelter, humane society or rescue group, in advance of your move, since many shelters limit their admissions to the number of animals they can adequately care for. If a shelter agrees to take in your pet, provide medical records, behavior information, and anything else that might assist shelter workers in finding your pet a new home.
“It is difficult and heartbreaking to lose a pet as a result of economic hardship,” said Hoffman. “But pet parents may take comfort in knowing that their pet will be better off, if they plan ahead and keep their cat or dog’s well-being in mind.”
For emergencies please call (770) 254-2355
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