Pets Face Hard Times During Recession: Shelter Seeks ‘Forever’ Homes for Abandoned Animals

Have you ever thought about what happens to the pets of people dealing with foreclosure? Many animal companions in North Carolina and across the country are facing abandonment or worse. The Goathouse Refuge, a no-kill pet sanctuary, is housing and seeking permanent homes for over 150 rescued cats. The number or rescued pets has spiked sharply in recent months during the economic decline.

Pittsboro, NC, March 22, 2009 --(PR.com)-- In today’s economic crisis, people are not the only ones suffering the consequences of job loss and foreclosure. Many pets from foreclosed homes are abandoned, left homeless and may become victims of euthanasia or starvation. Fortunately, there is still hope for some area pets.

The Goathouse Refuge, a local no-kill pet sanctuary, is housing and seeking permanent homes for over 150 rescued cats. The number or rescued pets has spiked sharply in recent months during the economic decline.

According to an estimate from No Paws Left Behind, a nonprofit organization dedicated to safe placements for pets during the foreclosure crisis, up to 4 million homes may be foreclosed in the next few years. These foreclosures could have a potentially devastating effect on over 1 million companion animals.

The Goathouse Refuge, a nonprofit organization founded and maintained by local artist Siglinda Scarpa, offers a safe haven for cats and other pets without homes. All cats are spayed or neutered, de-wormed and examined by a local vet. The sanctuary provides daily care, including animal and human socialization, while seeking animal placement in “forever” homes. However, Scarpa has concerns about the future of those in her care.

“We’ve seen an increased number of abandoned animals recently,” said Scarpa. “We are happy to provide them with safe shelter and care, but it is more important than ever to connect with people in our community who will give our animals a lifelong home.”

Scarpa encourages families to consider pet adoption, but emphasizes that every person must think carefully about whether pet ownership is feasible at this time.

“Taking care of an animal companion is not a responsibility that anyone should take lightly,’ said Scarpa. She explained that potential pet owners should calculate the costs and time needed to own a pet before making a commitment.

“It is my hope that we can not only help save cats and other animals from abandonment, but also that we can teach our neighbors to do the right thing for their animals,” said Scarpa. “It is very important that people take steps to prevent unwanted litters and find a safe home for their animals if they can no longer care for them.”

Those interested in adopting a cat from the Goathouse Refuge can visit them online or in person to fill out the application form. Applicants must be at least 18 years old.

The Goathouse Refuge is a volunteer-run organization that is always looking for additional helping hands. The refuge operates entirely on charitable donations. For more information, visit GoathouseRefuge.org or call (919)542-6815.

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Brenna Sowder
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919-932-9985
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The Goathouse Refuge
Brenna Sowder
(919) 932-9985
www.goathouserefuge.org
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