Cash woes force owners to surrender pets

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With ongoing economic instability, many people are beginning to give up their pets to animal shelters in an effort to save themselves from unaffordable expenses.

Area residents have not only been surrendering their pets, but animal adoptions have decreased this past year, according to Victoria Stryker, executive director of the Lycoming County Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

"Two families have surrendered their pets (in December) because they are homeless," Stryker said. "Some cannot afford the necessary veterinary care for their animals, much less their own bills."

Although there is no nationwide data available for reasons dogs and cats are being abandoned by their owners, shelter managers and advocates for animals say the trend is undeniable - and probably a bigger phenomenon than they are aware of.

When it comes to pet ownership, John R. Hettinger, director of development at the SPCA, said that people have to make a choice between the expenses of everyday life necessities and those related to the care of their pets.

"This is especially true with our elderly populations and people on fixed incomes," Hettinger said. "It's a sad reality when you have to forego the love and companionship of your pet."

"The main expense with pets tend to be food, cat litter and veterinary care," Stryker said. "Some people on fixed incomes just can't find any holes in their budgets."

''People are embarrassed to admit that's why they're giving up their pets,'' said Betsy McFarland, the Humane Society's director of communications for companion animals.

The average annual cost of owning a dog is about $1,400, while the average annual cost of a cat is about $1,000, according to a survey conducted by the American Pet Products Association.

Of the estimated 6 million to 8 million dogs and cats sent to animal shelters every year, half are euthanized and the rest adopted, according to the Humane Society of the United States.

While budgeting for pet-care expenses may be challenging for some depending on the income brought in by the owner, Stryker says there are some economically feasible remedies that can help alleviate costs.

"Shredded paper can be swapped for litter," Stryker suggested. "And regular vet visits can help catch minor health problems before they become big ones."

Stryker added that regular walks, grooming, time and attention can replace expensive toys.

The SPCA offers neuter assistance to low-to-moderate income residents if they can't afford to have their animals sprayed or neutered, according to Stryker.

"If owners have behavior issues with their pets, we can help with training issues," Stryker added. "I wish I had a pot of gold and could help every pet owner who needs it.

"Pets help people stay healthy and live happier lives," she said. "It is devastating for most pet owners when they must give up their pet for reasons that are out of their control."

(The Associated Press contributed to this story.)