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Franny Syufy

Franny's Cats Blog

By Franny Syufy, About.com Guide to Cats

The Effects of a Fallen Economy on Cats

Thursday July 2, 2009

I've received two pieces of news recently related to our current recession/depression and cats. The first was from a young woman who had lost her job and was forced to move in with people who don't want cats in their home for one reason or another. As a result, the cats were PTS, a very sad example of economic euthanasia.

The second was a press release concerning the New York City Housing Authority Pet Policy, which went into effect May 1, 2009. It's ironic that the NYCHA goes almost directly against the Mayor’s Alliance for NYC’s Animals goals.

Then, there's Governor Schwarzenegger's recommendation to shorten the "kill reprieve" period for cats and dogs in California animal shelters, which is more directly related to the current economic climate. However, the net results are the same:

  • More cats and dogs will be killed in shelters.
  • More cat and dog lovers will suddenly find themselves having lost their beloved pets.

How about you? Have you been directly or indirectly affected by our current economy? Vote in the poll, then post your comments below. I'm also interested in seeing your advice for others who may be faced with having to give up their cats.

Comments

July 2, 2009 at 2:52 pm
(1) Sue C says:

“Other” – We went from a family of 2 adults, 3 cats and 4 fish to a family of 3 adults, 3 cats, 4 fish, 1 dog, and 1 rat when the work dried up and the off-spring moved back home. Everyone is harmonizing.

My heart breaks for the story you shared. I was almost in that position myself a few years back when we moved in with my sister who is alergic. Luckily we were able to stay in the far corner of her house to limit exposure. When I was in my twenties I had a cat that stayed with friends twice when I moved to places that didn’t allow pets. I was fortunate that my kitty was so social and well-loved.

July 2, 2009 at 7:46 pm
(2) Jeanne says:

My pets have not had to do without but they dont get any extras.

I do work with an animal Wellness Clinic we are seeing alot in the community .
Any one needing spay/neuter services Cat spay $40 Dogs any size $80 vaccines $15
All About Animals 586 879 1745 We are in Southeastern Michigan city Warren 10 1/2 and Mound

July 3, 2009 at 9:15 pm
(3) Holly says:

Luckily it hasn’t affected us or our pets.
We have 11 cats and 3 dogs and all are fixed.
I won’t short change my pets anyday!

July 8, 2009 at 1:09 pm
(4) Sue says:

I haven’t bought new clothes (or much of anything extra) for more than a year, so that the cats have only had to give up major birthday presents. We buy small toys in bulk or on sale, and keep them put away until either it’s someone’s birthday or they beat up an old toy to the point that it seems safer to replace it.
Otherwise, with the help of lots of coupon-hunting and a “buy 12, get one free” cat food program at our local pet store, we are managing to keep their standard of care the same for now.

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