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P.O. Box 80663

Lincoln, NE  68501

402 - 476 - 4414

info@animalrescuesoc.org

Moving - when you have a companion and choose not to take it with you

There is little more aggravating than to answer a call and the first words you hear are "we're moving and can't take our pet with us." "Can you take it?" After I get over the urge to slap them silly, the first thing out of my mouth is "your failure to plan doesn't constitute an emergency on our part."  Our resources are put to much better use helping abandoned, neglected, abused, sick or injured animals - of which there are plenty to keep us busy twenty-four hours a day seven days a week. 

When we, instead, have to take time out to become enablers to people who haven't had enough common sense to plan ahead, then those in most need must go unattended. If you were the one responsible for acquiring the animal in the first place then you should follow that responsibility through to the end. You wouldn't give your child away because you were moving, would you? Then why would you even consider giving your companion away? There are always ways to deal with the moving/pet situation.  If you don't give yourself the option of getting rid of the pet, you will find a way to keep it.

 

Make certain wherever you move they allow pets. The world has become much pet friendlier in the past few years and there are many, many landlords who will accept them along with references and a deposit. if you start soon enough and do your homework there is absolutely no chance you will not find someone to rent to you.  So you have to acquiesce slightly and maybe the place isn't quite as fancy as one where pets are not allowed. But is your vanity more important than your pet's life? This is a very serious question and one we all must ask ourselves, not only concerning moving but also many other situations that arise from pet ownership. How many animals do you think are turned in daily at local Pounds because the animal potties on the floor? If you have this problem with your pet, there is always a solution. But if you do not take the time to find the solution, then the problem will continue. Most would be shocked to see how often this scenario plays out at local Pounds and Humane Societies. We often hear people say "we asked the Vet but he is still having accidents, so we must turn him in!" Shame on those who accept these animals without educating the owner on their alternatives before sentencing the innocent pet to death.

We at ARS have heard every excuse in the world from people who have made up their mind to dump their pet. If we find a solution to one of their pet problems, they will just come up with another......and another.....and another ....until they get their way and dump the animal.

If you make up your mind you are going to keep your companion through thick and thin, you will amaze yourself how strong resolve can get you through any situation.  Remember, you acquired the pet, not vice-versa. It is not their fault you "changed your mind." They should not have to pay the ultimate price just because some fickle human being wanted them in the first place.