May 15, 2008 2:15 pm US/Pacific
Number Of Pets Left At Shelters Up 22 Percent
LOS ANGELES
The number of pets dropped off at city animal shelters increased 22 percent during the first four months of 2008, Animal Services officials announced Thursday.
Between January and April, owners dropped off 1,378 cats, up from 1,132 during the same period last year, and 2,977 dogs, an increase from 2,633 in 2007.
Animal Services attributes the increase to an increase in foreclosures.
"Pets are among the voiceless victims of the current economic downturn," General Manager of Animal Services Ed Boks said.
"I encourage families to prepare for their pets in the event of financial difficulties the same way they should prepare for a natural disaster. Take the time to plan what you will do if forced to surrender a pet. An animal shelter should only be a last resort."
City shelters took in 14,138 dogs and cats during the first four months of the year, compared to 12,197 during the same period last year.
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