Pets Locked Inside Abandoned Foreclosed Houses

July 2nd, 2008 | Tags: Foreclosure Victims

The beastly activities of man coming out raw and naked are most evident in what is being done to our dumb friends. Far more horrendous than the abandonment of pets in animal shelters or the streets is the increasing instance of pets being kept locked inside abandoned foreclosed houses.

More and more similar reports are coming in from all across the country. Foreclosure victims are leaving behind their pets in horrendous conditions.

Connecticut has its own share of foreclosure pet problems. Kristina Ruszczyk is an animal control officer with East Haven Animal Shelter. She has witnessed many pure bred dogs being let loose. The tendency has increased – small and big dogs are dropped off because the new places will not accept pets. The animals are left to their fate. A website dealing with abandoned pets shows a motley collection – a cocker spaniel, a Siamese cat as well as a yellow Labrador pawing around with a sprinkling of mixed breeds.

Forgotten Felines of Westbrook had been set up to look after stray animals. Carol Andrecs of this shelter notes that there has been a rise of private individuals surrendering their animals. On the other side adoptions have become slow. Forgotten Felines engages in various related activities like giving talks and advice. They also coach enthusiasts about the basics of animal welfare. Man’s attitude towards animal has largely changed. Today Mankind is selfish as never before.

The New Haven Cat Project is another such centre. Its spokesperson Cheryl DeFilippo comments they have found within the feral colonies many friendly cats that have obviously been used to living with humans. These have been kept in foster homes until a proper place can be found. GNHCP also reports that many are complaining that they are shifting because of foreclosures and cannot find places that permit pets. Here too there is a rise in pets seeking shelter and less number of people coming forward for adopting cats and dogs. Despite the pressure they are reluctant to allow people who complain about fees to adopt animals. Their contention is that if the fees cannot be afforded how will they keep the pets? Cheryl argues that spaying and neutering should be made compulsory but without the financial backing of the town or city the problem will remain confused. One suggestion was made. Those adopting pets should be awarded credit brownie points. The pets are the most innocent victims of the ugly foreclosure mess.