Dogs Victimized by the Economic Downturn
By Lisa Cleary
Evidence of the current fiscal condition is prevalent in all forms of local media, as the same message repeatedly resounds that the economy is suffering. Statistically speaking, yes, the unyielding number of layoffs and associated foreclosures are on the rise. But, statistics fall short as an accurate measurement of the effects the financial system has on the state’s basic foundation: its families and their dogs.
One in 10 Americans is either a month behind in mortgage payments or facing foreclosure. Maryland families are not exempt from the national crisis, either — they too are downsizing their living accommodations. Families are relocating to apartment complexes or seeking shelter with family members and friends; others are facing homelessness. During this difficult transition, some find themselves with no choice but to surrender, or turn over, their dogs to shelters as many housing options prohibit animals. Others can no longer afford the expense of owning their four-legged, furry companions.
According to Division of Animal Control Supervisor Charlotte Crenson-Murrow, Baltimore County has not recorded a legitimate statistical increase of surrendered animals from families who have lost their homes. “People who are surrendering their pets are often reluctant or embarrassed to give a reason why they are doing so and will sometimes simply say that they are moving,” she states.
Nevertheless, staff members of local pet rescue and shelter organizations confirm that the increase in surrendered dogs is most likely a direct result of foreclosure. Jennifer Mead-Brause, executive director of Baltimore Animal Rescue and Care Shelter, Inc., or barcs, notes personal encounters of families who have surrendered pets. “My office looks out of a window to the parking lot. Today, I just watched another [moving truck] leave here,” Mead-Brause states. She describes one family who, after hours, pulled up to the shelter in their moving truck. The family insisted on surrendering their medium-sized mixed dog at that time because they had lost their home.
Last year, barcs alone received 3,046 animals that were directly surrendered to the shelter. Of this total, 93 pets were brought in and surrendered by their owners; 1,026 pets stemmed from owners who claimed reasons of financial or housing conflicts. During the same time period, barcs intake records report that Animal Control picked up 1,402 animals that were surrendered by their owners and 109 animals from owners evicted from their homes.
Joshua Gowans, executive director of the Humane Society of Baltimore County, said that accounts show that 40 percent of surrenders at the shelter are due to financial and relocation reasons. However, Gowans feels that the percentage is not accurate — and instead higher — due to lack of complete frankness on behalf of owners.
Prior to the recent rise in foreclosures, the Baltimore County Humane Society generally sheltered medium-sized Pit Bull mixes. Gowans now notes an obvious increase in the diversity of size and breed of surrendered dogs. He further describes the general health condition of the dogs as those of typical family pets, sterilized and in good health, both mentally and physically.
Executive Director Laura Ulrich adds that the Harford County Humane Society has included the category of foreclosures to their intake records of surrendered pets. She, too, has met people who have surrendered their dogs because they had lost their homes; some owners were living in cars and incapable of housing them. Ulrich explains that the main goal is to care for animals in need, regardless of any shelter expenses or profits. “In that kind of situation, where someone isn’t working, we don’t have a surrender fee,” she says.
Dogs surrendered to shelters naturally differ in temperament and vary in responses. Reactions may include those of separation anxiety, including withdrawal, and various physical symptoms such as diarrhea, as well as whining and panting. Dogs may also experience confusion because they are accustomed to the bonds of family members. Still, most animals quickly adapt to their new surroundings. “Dogs are so loving, giving, and resilient. They are all just big kids who want love and direction. That is why so many of them can be re-homed,” says Joy Freedman, dog behaviorist and obedience instructor.
Families should pro-actively plan ahead for the long-term, permanent care of their dogs to avoid potential surrender. Owners of all pets should view animals as they would their children and put aside savings for care. Food alone can range from $200 to $1,000 annually, and routine veterinary examinations and vaccinations average $250 per year.
Dr. Jonathan Kaufman, a practicing veterinarian for more than 22 years and owner of Eastern Animal Hospital in Baltimore, says there are numerous methods to economize on the care of dogs (see page 36). The number one cost-saving tip, however, is through preventive care. “The best way to save money is to prevent illnesses rather than to treat them,” he states.
Kaufman also stresses the importance of establishing relationships with local veterinarians. The Eastern Animal Hospital is a sponsor of the SPCA and therefore has established outlets with a wide spectrum of willing volunteers. Vets, such as Kaufman, often network with organizations and breed-specific rescues to aid animals in need.
Still, some local pet owners feel that they have no choice but to surrender their animals. Jane has been suffering from near-fatal health complications over the last several years. The combination of long-term hospital bills and her current financial situation led her to sell her home, surrender two of her four pets, and move to an apartment. “It took me a long time to decide who to give up — it was a very tough decision,” Jane says. She also struggled to find apartments that would allow animals for little or no cost. “I now pay $25 a month per pet,” Jane says.
Michelle Williams, a former mortgage broker, lost both her job and home last year. Her financial distress made it difficult to maintain the costs of her 11-year-old Golden Retriever, Goldie, who was ailing from a variety of medical issues including a tumor. After much delib-eration, Williams sought the assistance of her local animal shelter for the euthanasia of Goldie. She said that the decision was not easy. “Losing my house was one thing — losing my best friend was another,” she says of Goldie. Williams warns that anyone can face un-planned financial hardship and encourages owners to avoid situations similar to hers by investing in pet insurance.
Those who ultimately face foreclosure should never, ever abandon their animals. They should first seek help from family, friends, and co-workers. If these options fail, owners should then contact their local vets, animal control, and rescue groups and shelters for help; contact information for these organizations can be found via the Internet, phone books, or word of mouth. Organizations often network with one another and are therefore able to locate the best resources catering to specific animals’ needs. Most affiliations are also willing to provide food or even temporary care until pet owners are able to regain their financial footing. “If someone called me today and said, ‘I can’t afford the food’ — I’d give them food,” says Gowans.
Community members can also reach out to animals in need. Shelters routinely promote open houses and adoption specials. They also offer sponsorship programs for those who may not be able to adopt but are able to care for a dog during a designated period. Organizations welcome donations as they are also hurting from the economy and the sudden increase of surrendered animals.
The bottom line is, statistics aside, few people want to see families surrender their pets for any reason. Veterinarians, shelters, rescue groups and community members voice the same message: Ask for help. It’s there.
One in 10 Americans is either a month behind in mortgage payments or facing foreclosure. Maryland families are not exempt from the national crisis, either — they too are downsizing their living accommodations. Families are relocating to apartment complexes or seeking shelter with family members and friends; others are facing homelessness. During this difficult transition, some find themselves with no choice but to surrender, or turn over, their dogs to shelters as many housing options prohibit animals. Others can no longer afford the expense of owning their four-legged, furry companions. 
Dogs surrendered to shelters naturally differ in temperament and vary in responses. Reactions may include those of separation anxiety, including withdrawal, and various physical symptoms such as diarrhea, as well as whining and panting. Dogs may also experience confusion because they are accustomed to the bonds of family members. Still, most animals quickly adapt to their new surroundings. “Dogs are so loving, giving, and resilient. They are all just big kids who want love and direction. That is why so many of them can be re-homed,” says Joy Freedman, dog behaviorist and obedience instructor.
