People are moving to and from Phoenix on a daily basis. Some move with their cats and others chose to turn them into shelters. There are many reasons why people will not take their cat with them where ever they go.
Heather Allen, President and CEO Chair of HALO Rescue of Phoenix, said, “Some people can’t afford the cost of flying the pet to their new home and they don’t think the cat will travel well. They think travel is too stressful on their cat to go across country in a plane or car."
One man, Philip Erdeljohn, moved from Cincinnati, Ohio to Phoenix, by car, to preserve the bond and family he has with his two cats. “I could not see being without them. To some people, their pets are just that...animals that live with you. To me, my pets are quirky and have very distinct, unique personalities,” he said.
There is a list of other reason people give up their cats, including:
- Losing a job and needing to move in with family/friends.
- Pets that don’t get along.
- Cat allergies
- Moving to a place that doesn’t allow pets.
“People can be moving to a place that has strict and costly rabies quarantine rules like Australia, the United Kingdom, and Hawaii,” Ms. Allen also said. Mr. Erdeljohn, who is a network engineer, said, “Unless a change in my job future required me to live somewhere else and not bring my cats along, I would ask a family member or friend to care for them until I could get them back.”
People are starting to be responsible cat parents. “The only time I would give my cats up for adoption would be if I ever encountered a time where I could no longer afford to care for them. It would be selfish and unfair of me to deny animals a safe, comfortable living situation. I would be devastated emotionally, but I would know it would be the best option,” said Mr. Erdeljohn.
Unfortunately, this is becoming too much of a reality now. Not being able to afford your cat’s vet bills or food is a serious matter, but one organization in the Valley, Empty Bowl Pet Food Pantry, is willing to help you feed your cat(s). Taking the time to ensure that your cat will always have that loving bond with you is important.
“I verified with the apartment complex that I was moving into that they had a “pet agreement” and how much it would cost. I understand that for apartments, renters with pets usually require additional labor to renovate after a move-out and the potential for damage while renting. I made sure this was all cleared before I left Ohio,” said Mr. Erdeljohn.
Make sure, even if on short notice, that your cat can be with you where ever you go. All kitties want a forever home with owners that love and take care of them.
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