The current state of the economy is causing unforeseen problems for so many of us. But it affects way beyond just our family budgets and our daily lives. I mean how do you justify spending money on your pet when there are so many other important issues facing us. I know personally I have tried to limit the toys and treats I am used to buying for my puppy but it is a hard thing to do.

The Chicago Tribune has an interesting article, “Tough Times: No Reason to Abandon or Neglect Your Pet“. The article discusses the alarming trend of pets being abandoned due to pet owners being so cash-strapped right now. It is indeed a sad trend that has many animal welfare experts quite concerned.

“Obviously, the goal is to keep these pets in the homes and out of shelters,” said PAWS (Pets Are Worth Saving) Chicago founder Paula Fasseas, whose organization has deployed staff members to the Animal Care and Control lobby on weekends to counsel people who are coming in to surrender their dogs and cats.

The article goes on to suggest several things that you can thing about or do to help you keep your pet during these hard times.

Some include…

• foster care
• low-cost medical care
• saving on food and incidentals
• saving on play time
• general tips

I really think you should check out the article for more information.