Increase‌ in Pet Abandonments⁣ in Houston County Amid Economic Strain

HOUSTON COUNTY, ‌Ga. — The ⁣ Houston County Humane society has reported a important ‌rise in the ⁢number of abandoned pets recently,‌ linking this trend to the ongoing economic challenges faced by ‍homeowners ⁣due to the federal government shutdown.

The ⁤Alarming Trend of Pet⁣ Abandonment

According ⁢to data from the ASPCA, there was a​ staggering 40% increase in animal abandonments during⁣ the 35-day government shutdown back⁢ in 2018.‍ This concerning pattern appears ⁤to be resurfacing as financial pressures mount⁣ on pet owners.

Amanda Sims, a dedicated volunteer with the Houston County Humane Society, noted that as the shutdown persists, many ⁣pet owners find themselves struggling ​financially and unable to ‌care for their animals. “People simply cannot afford to keep​ their pets,” she stated.

The Consequences of Overcrowded Shelters

As local shelters reach full capacity,pet owners frequently enough feel ‍they have no‌ choice but to⁤ abandon their animals. “When individuals can’t afford their pets and there’s no room at shelters as they’re all full,they resort to just leaving⁢ them behind,” sims explained.

this year has seen an alarming increase; ⁤last October saw around 20‍ dogs abandoned at local shelters—this year that figure has nearly doubled. Just this week alone, eight dogs were taken in by ⁤the ⁢shelter after being left behind. In one instance, five puppies were found left​ at the shelter’s entrance.

Community​ Response and Support Initiatives

Alan Smith, who oversees animal services for Houston County, shared similar concerns regarding rising numbers of surrenders: “We receive between 10 and 12 calls each week from people looking to rehome or surrender their pets.” Financial⁣ constraints remain a primary factor driving this surge.

The ​Humane Society is ‌actively working on initiatives aimed at preventing‌ these abandonments⁣ by providing food‍ and⁢ supplies‌ for families facing hardships. “Rescue ‍organizations are⁤ more​ than willing to help you keep your pets rather than having you abandon them and then⁤ us dealing​ with‍ cleanup later,” ⁤Sims emphasized.

A Call for Community Involvement

Volunteers are rallying community support‍ through donations of pet food ⁢or⁣ supplies; even small contributions​ can make ‌a significant difference ‌for families trying to keep their animals at home.⁤ Additionally, residents are encouraged to consider fostering pets ​temporarily wich helps free up kennel ‍space while ‌providing safety for animals until owners can regain ⁢stability.

How You ‌Can Help or Seek Assistance

If you need assistance⁣ or wish to contribute ⁣towards helping these vulnerable animals find homes again, please contact the⁤ Houston County ‌Humane Society at 478-599-0211.