Bi-product of the Recession

People have been impacted by the recession in ways they never expected. Many have come to realize that their financial shortcomings are affecting the treatment of their pets.

Pets are an expensive luxury. Dog care is especially costly. Families have made the heartbreaking decision to take their precious pets to the humane society because they can no longer afford to care for them.

The result is, animal shelters across the country are filled with wonderful, well-trained older animals that are waiting for a good home. Over the years I have owned puppies and I have rescued grown animals. I can say, without question, I prefer the older dogs. Older indoor dogs can be housebroken--a wonderful treat. They have outgrown the gnawing and tearing up phase. They are more settled down and are a lower maintenance animal.

Anyone planning to adopt a pet should consider the animal shelter. Don't be quick to dismiss a mature dog as a family pet. If you prefer a full-blooded animal, be assured that many shelters have them. I once rescued a full-blooded Boston Terrier from a shelter in Murfreesboro TN.

Check out your local shelters and see what they have to offer.