Pets out as money woes bite hard

These dogs are the latest victims of the money squeeze as struggling families are forced to choose between feeding themselves and their pets.

Rising numbers of owners are surrendering their beloved family pets because they can't afford to keep them.

In the past six months there has been a 50 per cent rise the number of dogs surrendered because their owners cannot afford to feed them, the Australian Animal Protection Society said.

Roxy, Ebony, Shelby, Mikey, Jake and Rexy are all at the Keysborough shelter and hoping for a new home to call their own.

Shelter staff said Roxy the staffordshire bull terrier was the most heartbroken.

"Staffies are real 'people dogs' so she is really missing the human companionship," animal welfare co-ordinator Sue Thompson said.

Ms Thompson said finances were so tight for some families that it had become a choice between feeding their children and themselves or giving away their dogs.

Interest rate rises were also claiming animal victims with many dogs not only losing their homes, but their families too, she said.

"In the last six months there have been lots of people coming in to give up the dog because they have to downsize the home or move into rental accommodation," Ms Thompson said.

"They feel they have enough to worry about with kids and finances without worrying about the dog as well."

The society does not kill animals.

Ms Thompson said the shelter was full, but they wanted to find the right home for each dog.

The society said it would not adopt to people who just want a dog to live outside because it was very distressing for the animal.

"Dogs need to be allowed inside so they feel like they are part of the pack," Ms Thompson said.

Anyone interested in adopting a dog can contact the Australian Animal Protection Society on 9798 8415.

Reference: www.news.com.au

Return to the index...

This article has been viewed 518 times.