Pets Are Also Victims of Oil Spill

We have all heard about the wildlife victims of the oil spill in the Gulf, the pelicans, turtles, fish and dolphins. But it turns out that there are other victims as well, as reported by the Inquirer.

Because of the impact the oil spill is having on the local economy, owners are dropping off their dogs in shelters because they suddenly do not have the money to take care of them. Last month, according to Beth Brewster, director of the shelter in Violet, Louisiana, 117 owners surrendered their pets. In May, the same shelter took in 288 pets.

"It comes down to feeding your family or feeding you dog. That's the decision they have to make," said Colleen Bosley of Catholic Charities of New Orleans.

And the town of Violet is not alone. Several coastal shelters have reported the same trend. "Its more than we can handle," said animal control officer, Shannon Asevedo. "We have way more coming in than going out."

The coastal shelters are so overwhelmed that animal are being transported to other shelters in other states and a recent grant from the ASPCA for free veterinary care in some coastal parishes may help keep some animals in their homes.

Many of the dogs being surrendered are highly adoptable, purebreds and mixed breeds that have been well cared for. Here's hoping they find new homes quickly or that somehow they find their way back to the homes they once knew.