It seems in our disposable society, animals are also considered disposable by some people.
For instance American shelters have registered a 44 percent increase in abandoned animals.
Even more horrifying is the growing number of people in the U.S abandoning their homes with their animals still inside and left starving to death.
Back in South Australia, thankfully there've been no such reports of these cruel acts.
However, over the past few months, the Animal Welfare League in SA has been inundated with people dumping their pets on its doorstep.
It usually takes in 1800 animals a month, but in the past 4 months there have been an extra 1500 animals dumped there, a 22 percent increase.
And, the sad story is repeated every day: families struggling to feed, clothe and house their kids are giving up the family member whom they feel they can no longer afford to keep - the dog or cat.
To make matters worse, the dogs and cats are often older animals which are harder to re-home.
At the moment the AWL has more mature cats in its care than it's ever had before, and the tragic reality is that most of them simply won't be adopted and may have to be put down.
On top of experiencing a huge surge in animal "hand -overs", charities like the AWL are dealing with a big drop in financial support.
The AWL receives no government funding, and relies on public donations to operate.
But, as people are losing their jobs and tightening their belts, those donations are drying up; however the number of dogs and cats in need, is spiralling.
So, even though it seems nothing will stem the flood of animals being dumped, there is something prospective pet owners can do: realise that it's a big responsibility, and one that is meant for life.
I for one, would sacrifice anything to ensure my 16 year old moggy, Molly, is well fed and cared for.
As long as I have a roof over my head, she will also have one.
She is not disposable, she is a member of my family and my friend and she is my responsibility and will continue to be so, even in recession.
Comments
A very well written piece, thank you so much for taking the time to draw attention to this situation. Hopefully the plight of AWL and other rescue groups can be recognised. Australians are one of the most giving nations, and these organisations are deserving of that charity. I couldn't agree more with your final sentiments. My furry children are equal and important members of my family and will continue to be loved and cherished as such. Thank you once again.
Apr 3 05:45 pmItis very unique,for bringing up the attention to that situation.Unfortunatley it is very sad and cruel for the annimals after so much love they give us to duptthem,I do have 3 dogs and I leave on a pension and I would never think to abunden my dogs I make sure the eat before me.In Australians are giving nations, and AWL deservs of that charity.How many millions they have donated for the Victorians Bush Fires.Beside the millions that the Goverment gave them as well.Please donate to the AWL.Thank
Apr 3 09:56 pmMy fears were confirmed with this article...donations drying up and people disposing of their family members. I realise times are tough, but I suspect too many people dump their pets and it could be avoided - what about family and friends helping out? People don't dump their human children as easily. I'm hardly wealthy, but I still donate and look after my pets - I would have to be on the street before dumping my 2 dogs, chooks and 3 guinea pigs.
Apr 4 05:46 pmWhat is wrong with people? Fancy dumping your mates!!! I could not and would not dump my fur and feathered friends, they mean too much to me. I have more time for my pets than i do for some people. As long as i live so will my mates!
Apr 9 03:46 pmwelcome to the new world ..and guess what , its a throwaway society. me personally, i would give up my wife before id give up my dog. lol
Apr 13 11:52 pm