TRAVERSE CITY -- More and more pet owners have been faced with a heartbreaking dilemma during difficult economic times -- confronting the reality that losing a home or job may also mean having to give up a beloved cat or dog.
"There have been a few really sad cases," said Mike Cherry, executive director of the Cherryland Humane Society who related the story of a woman who had been living in a van with her cats and dogs until she came to the realization that she just couldn't take care of them anymore.
"Some people have simply lost their jobs and don't have the source of income to take care of their pets," said Cherry, noting that the local humane society has seen a more than 50 percent increase in their pet population over the past year.
"We would hear about people giving up their pets for economic reasons sporadically in the past, but it is now becoming more and more common," Cherry said.
Other animal rescue organizations have seen a rise in surrendered pets as well.
"We are getting tons of calls on a daily basis, from people that are hurting so bad and can't feed or take care of their pet," said Melissa Scott, director of Petsafe Rescue Alliance where animals are placed in foster homes until adoptive families can be found.
The organization that usually provides services to sick, injured or at-risk animals is finding an increased need for placement of healthy family pets.
"People are barely able to put food on the table for themselves. It is hard enough to lose a house, but having to give up your best friend is devastating," said Dee Sheldon, canine coordinator for Petsafe.
"A woman that was working two jobs had to give up her 9-year-old cocker spaniel that she just couldn't afford to keep anymore," Sheldon said.
Ed Hickey, animal control manager for Grand Traverse County, says they have also seen an increase in stray and abandoned animals.
"For the first time we have experienced people that are homeless and need to surrender their dog," Hickey said.
Northern Michigan's increased need for pet surrenders is not unique.
"It transcends any local boundaries; other Humane organizations are going through the same thing. These economic problems go out and touch every aspect of our society," Cherry said.
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