A poor economy affects pets, too

September 6, 11:24 PMPet ExaminerTeri Webster

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High national unemployment rates and a slumping economy are affecting our four-legged friends.
This week the national unemployment rate topped 6.1 percent, a five-year high.  A  record 9 percent of American homeowners with a mortgage were either late on their payments or facing foreclosure at the end of June, the Associated Press reported.
Animal advocates are seeing the impact.
Faced with  foreclosures or even just the rising cost of living, some families are finding it difficult to care for their pets.
"It's not good," Madeline Bernstein, president of the spcaLA in Los Angeles, said during a recent telephone interview. "More animals are being brought in and the ones we already have are not being adopted."
Having more animals on board also means higher food and medical bills for shelters, she said.
Many vets are concerned that as discretionary income shrinks, it will mean fewer health check-ups for pets,  according to the American Veterinary Medical Association.
Other pets are facing an even worse fate.
The Humane Society of the United States reports that animals are being left behind in foreclosed homes, and more people are surrendering pets to shelters. In response, the Humane Society has set up the Foreclosure Pets Grant Fund.
Animal advocates say the number of people who just open the door and let their pets run free --with no attempt to bring them back -- also appears to be on the rise.
 "There's many different things to do besides leaving them behind in an abandoned building or letting them loose," said Bernstein.
For example, if a family is in danger of losing their home or is being evicted, they should check with neighbors or relatives who may be willing to take in their pet until they relocate or get back on their feet.
Here are some are  cost-cutting measures that everyone can try if they're feeling the pinch of the economy:
*Look for quality pet food that's less expensive.
*Cut down on treats and instead give safe table scraps such as skinless chicken or boiled rice.
*Learn to cut your pet's nails. Give pets a bath yourself, instead of paying for it.
*Consider getting health insurance for your pet.   Although that will add to your monthly expenses, it can help you avoid a whopping vet bill if your pet gets injured or sick.
Animal advocates suggest coming up with a plan if  your finances are tanking.
It's always sad to turn pets in to a rescue group or a shelter as a last resort.
But  it is still better than leaving them to fend for themselves.