The Economy: Animals Suffer, Too

When a war is fought, it isn’t only the troops who suffer. Often it is the civilians. Likewise, in tough times, it isn’t just the people: animals suffer. I just received an email from my wife. Her co-worker informed her an unknown kitten has come to their property, and unless it is removed it may be killed by the dogs. Can the local animal welfare group (a special private arrangement) come and get it as it has always done? I called a close friend who is affiliated with that group and helps part-time, when she can.

Calling for Help
Jeanie* informed me that the procedure has changed. The private group can no longer drive out and pick up animals for rescue. Instead, the first respondent must be animal control. This would not be a problem, since the two groups work hand-in-hand. However, animal control, apparently thanks to difficult fiscal times, no longer comes out to pick up animals, unless there is some danger involved, such as the risk of rabies. Instead, the individual must bring the animal in.

No Longer a Phone Call Away

This might not seem to present a problem, except that a trip to animal control can take more than a half hour in time and four gallons of gasoline for the round trip, approximately $14 worth of fuel. In a situation such as this one, what will happen to the animal? Clearly, the economy is affecting the animals every bit as much and maybe more than it is humans. In fact, animals are now being brought in because their owners can no longer afford to feed them, such as a lovely bulldog pup recently brought in by its elderly owners.

So Why Are You Telling Me This?

This article is not written with the notion that animals are better than people are-people must be given first attention. This article is not intended to be a statement concerning the inadequacies of any governmental administration. It exists out of regret that even our innocent friends-our pets-are suffering during these critical financial times. It is written to encourage any that would seek an affectionate family companion, to get into the spirit of “recycling” by visiting an animal shelter and saving an animal that might otherwise be destroyed.

Can You Do More?
Yes, animals suffer..but perhaps you can help? If you do not desire a pet or already have your limit of pets, another way to assist is by donating cans of pet food or other materials to your local animal shelter, or offer to walk the animals or clean their cages if that opportunity is available to you. Some locations such as the one I mention above would be more than happy for your assistance, even if it is only a couple or a few hours a week.

* The name has been changed.


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