How to Save Abandoned Pets After Foreclosure

Sadly, there are often cases of pets being abandoned after home foreclosure. With the foreclosure crisis sweeping the United States--this is definitely something we need to be concerned about. Of course, pets can't fend for themselves-and are often found dehydrated and on the brink of starvation. The following are ways to help prevent pets from being abandoned--and to save pets that have been left behind.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Ask owners of any homes in your neighborhood that you know are being foreclosed on and have pets, if they are taking their pets with them, and if not, whether or not they made plans for their pets.

2. Let them know there are realtors that specialize in pet-friendly properties and websites that list pet-friendly rentals if they say they are uncertain whether they will take their pets with them.

3. Try to find a home or put the word out about their pet(s) if they are planning to give them up and don't have a home lined up. There are two great websites that list pets up for adoption throughout North America: Petfinder.com and AdoptaPet.com (see Resources below). You can list the pet in the classified section on Petfinder and for AdoptaPet you would need to contact a local rescue group to see if they will list the pet, because this site doesn't permit individuals to lists pets up for adoption. Most rescues would be happy to help. There is also a great organization called No Paws Left Behind that works to help keep pets with their families, as well as assists with abandoned pets (see Resources below). They will at least be able to provide you or the owners with resources, including no-kill shelters in the area that may possibly take the pet. If it's a purebred dog, there may be a rescue for that particular breed that might be able to take the dog or at least provide contacts or resources.

4. Leave animal rescue literature in the mailbox or in a visible spot, just to be safe, especially if you can't get in direct contact with the owners. It's better to offend than to do nothing at all.

5. Check on the home once the occupants have moved out to see if any pets were left inside or tied up in the backyard. If you find pets, call the local Humane Society, your city's animal control or the police. If you suspect pets are inside, but don't know for sure, contact the phone number listed on the "For Sale" sign or a local neighborhood real estate agent and ask if they would inspect the house for abandoned pets. They will more than likely be happy to help.

6. Provide a small amount of water if you find a pet that is dehydrated, and watch him drink it. Some pets can become so thirsty and weak that they can drown in a water bowl. Call a vet before offering food.

Tips & Warnings

• Animal cruelty and abandonment is against the law. If you suspect a pet is in immediate danger, don't hesitate to call the police, your city's animal control or the local Humane Society.

• Dogs and cats become dehydrated within 24 hours without water and could die in extreme heat within a few days.

Resources

• Petfinder.com
• Adopt a Pet.com
• No Paws Left Behind