Georgia's economy flooding animal shelters

January 5, 1:10 PMAtlanta Dogs ExaminerSandy Weaver Carman

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Malchom - Heart of Georgia photo

According to the latest Georgia Department of Labor statistics, this state's unemployment rate has hit 7.5%.  Add that to the economic downturn, the stock market losses that hit retirees and those nearing retirement very hard, and you have the perfect storm for animal shelters, which results in high owner turn-in rates.  And the trend is putting a strain on some area shelters.

Though not all shelters are keeping official track of owner turn-ins, most are reporting higher than normal rates.  And the bad news for the dogs and cats being taken to the shelters is that owner turn-ins are often the first to be euthanized, because there's no legal need to keep them.  After all, the owner doesn't need a chance to find their missing pet...they are the ones who turned that pet in.

The heartbreaking truth is that some Georgia residents are having to choose between feeding their pets and feeding themselves, and when the choice becomes that stark hard decisions need to be made.  One pair of Miniature Schnauzers was dropped off anonymously at a midwestern shelter.  They were up to date on shots, spayed and neutered, nicely groomed and had clean, healthy teeth.  The owners apparently hoped that they could be adopted by someone who could continue to care for them.  Cases like that break the hearts of shelter workers, who often end up taking dogs and cats home with them until suitable homes can be found.

If you or someone you know is in financial difficulties and facing the choice of losing their pet, here are some things to do to try and find a great home for them.  Know that if they go to an animal shelter or animal control facility, owner turn-ins are at the top of the euthanasia list, so that should be the last-resort choice.

1. Talk to your veterinarian about finding a new owner for your pet.  Your vet knows the medical history and may know of a suitable home, either temporary or permanent, for your pet.

2. Talk to your friends, neighbors and family members.  One of them might be willing to take in your pet, either temporarily or permanantly.

3.  Call all of the local shelters and rescues and let them know about your pet.  Many keep a "wish list" in order to match people with animals.  Some shelters might be willing to help you get your pet adopted through their wish list.

4.  If you're looking for a pet-friendly place to live, check www.georgiahousingsearch.org

5.  Use the rescue resource page on the Spot Society website (in the box to the right) to try to find someone who can take your pet either temporarily or permanently.

6.  When trying to find a home for your pet, remember that the people you are dealing with are, for the most part, caring volunteers who want to help but who may have extremely stretched resources.  Don't wait until the last minute to find a place for your pet, or you'll end up having the local animal shelter as your only choice.  And remember...owner turn-ins are on the top of the euthanasia list at most animal control facilities.

And remember, shelters, humane societies and rescue groups need volunteers, supplies and monetary donations now more than ever.  If you can help, please do.  The Spot Society page is a great place to find the group you and your family would like to help.