Langley Advance
Site updated Friday, February 16, 2007 10:24 AM

Animal welfare: Moving leaves pets in lurch

by Matthew Claxton

Two to three times a month, the Langley Animal Shelter takes in an animal because its owners move, and can't take their pet.

In many cases it is because the owner has moved to an apartment that does not accept pets, said shelter manager Sean Baker.

"It's pretty emotional," Baker said. "There's definitely an attachment."

Often the move follows a major change in the family, such as a death or divorce. In the aftermath, people move into rental properties and find they have no place for their pet.

"It's mainly dog people, but it still happens with cats," Baker said.

The shelter, the last resort for many, can't always help.

"We can't take every animal that comes to our doorstep," Baker said. "We just don't have the space."

Finding new homes for the dogs can be a challenge, Baker said. They are often older dogs, some with medical conditions and personality problems. It is much easier to find homes for young, friendly dogs, Baker said.

published on 02/16/2007