It recently came to my attention that the number of dogs, cats, birds, pet rats and others that are being dropped off to shelters across America has increased 30% over the last year. Many of these animals will be euthanized. The majority of these animals are home trained, with good dispositions and minimal health issues because they have been well cared for by their previous owners.

Unfortunately, due to a drop in home ownership, down-sizing, loss of income, families moving in together, singles living alone now have roommates, apartments that refuse pets, change in work schedules, the age of the animal, working two jobs, there is a growing inability to afford pet food and proper healthcare for animals. Many owners would prefer to keep their pets, their children’s pets and the pets they’ve inherited through a break-up and death of a loved one, but they cannot.

Animals everywhere are asking for your help! There is a higher rate of abuse toward animals when people are stressed. This holiday season is a great time to adopt a pet. I had 17 wonderful years with my beloved, Bootsie Kat before she passed away 3 years ago. I was too heartbroken to get another cat. A year later I realized I wanted a small dog. My dearest male friend Joel’s wife had passed away 3 years before and he was lonely, Joel didn’t want the full time responsibility of a pet and I frequently worked long hours or traveled for work. We found the perfect solution; we would share a dog and that is how Moet was born in our hearts. Moet became our baby she spends three nights and two days a week with Joel and 4 nights and 5 days a week with me. When I travel Moet spends extra time with Papa Joel. We live 2 blocks from each other and we keep food, toys and rule’s the same. It’s that simple.

Since Joel is in retirement age although a long way from retiring we have an agreement that if there should ever be a change I will take Moet and she will visit with Joel whenever he wishes.

This is just one solution as to how to save your pet from needing to be dropped at the shelter. Share the time, finances, love and walks with your friend or neighbor. If your kids want to keep their pet let them get a part-time job to pay for food and contribute to the yearly health insurance which is far less costly with pet insurance.

If you still have a backyard, adopt a larger dog who would be otherwise turned away by an owner in an apt. Find out if your neighbor’s family would be willing to care for your pet if you are working a second job. Before running out to purchase an animal try to find the right animal for you at a shelter. Go to several shelters, talk to your neighbors and friends who can no longer take care of their pet and offer to help. If you can’t adopt a pet considerate a charitable donation this year to your local animal shelter or local clinic that gives free shots to animals.

We are all part of the animal kingdom. Let’s maintain our humanity and humility to help our fellow animals with love, food, shelter and healthcare.

Make it an Excuse Free Life! Moet and Dr. Leslie Seppinni