by Victoria Tiegert

Created on: July 11, 2009

For many pet owners, there has come a time when surrendering or keeping their pet is a very real decision that they are faced with making. Today's economic downturn and the housing market crash has been a major concern for pet owners as they are losing their homes and having to rent a home that may not allow them to come with the animal. There may be other reasons coming into play, but the state of the economy has definitely affected pets and their owners in heartbreaking ways. Before you let go of your furry friend for the long haul, there may be other options to consider.

*Boarding

If there is an end in sight to your situation that is in the not too distant future, you may want to consider boarding your pet with a reputable facility. This can get rather expensive, but if it is financially feasible, it may be just the option you're looking for. When looking for a boarding facility, be sure and check out several with visits that are not pre-arranged. Ask friends or family that have boarded their own pets for recommendations. Look for somewhere that is clean and sanitary, as well as where the animals are given exercise and interaction daily.

*Friends or Family

Do you have friends or family members that love animals just as you do? In particular, do you know someone who loves your pet? Ask them if they would be willing to keep your pet for you either indefinitely or for a limited time. If you intend to get the pet back, make that very clear from the beginning and offer them a stipend to cover the costs associated with keeping your pet and meeting his or her needs.

*Foster Families

There are foster families for pets that may be able to step in and help you out temporarily. Contact your local Humane Society and they may be able to point you in the right direction. There is sometimes a fee to use these services as a private consumer, but it may be significantly less than a standard boarding facility and your pet has the benefit of being with a family in a home setting.

*Home Negotiations

If a relocation is the reason for the potential surrender of a pet, you may be able to do some creative negotiating with a future landlord. Offer to pay a deposit and allow them to see the condition of your current home where the pet has been living with you. This may be just what is needed to convince them that your pet is well-trained and won't cause damage to their home beyond what your deposit will cover.

The thought of giving up a pet can be very difficult to even consider. They are like parts of the family to those who care for and love them. Fortunately, there may be other options available to take into account before you make that final decision.

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