Finding your pet a new home Finding a new home for your pet can be extremely difficult – for the owner and especially for the animal. That’s why we encourage people to do whatever they can to keep their animals – and don’t adopt unless you can include your pet in your plans as long as it lives.

Animal welfare groups – including Maumee Valley Save-A-Pet – really have all we can handle dealing with unowned animals. Many are sick, injured, malnourished or threatened – and for those reasons, they really must come first on our priority list. Saying “no” is the most frustrating and heartbreaking part of this volunteer work, but in truth, we have no choice most of the time.

The statistics say it all: the average cat and dog have 3-5 homes in their lifetimes. They’re the lucky ones. Millions nationwide are euthanized because there are so very many of them and so few adopters. That’s why we need help and cooperation from pet owners to either find a way to keep their animals or place them responsibly. Both solutions take time and effort – but as an animal lover, you must be willing to try.

Here are the most common reasons animals lose their homes – and some solutions!

• “I’m moving…”Usually this is easy – just shop around for housing that allows pets. This takes more time and planning, but it’s worth it if you can stay together.

• “I’m traveling.”– or “I don’t have time anymore." Dogs are a little more demanding; cats are fine if you work long hours or travel now and then. If your dog needs walking when you’re not around, hire a pet sitter or dog walker. Have a friend or relative help out or consider “day care” services for your pet.

• “We have behavioral issues…” If the issue is litterbox accidents, PLEASE see your vet or an animal trainer/behaviorist. So frequently, the problem is a urinary tract infection – treatable, curable, and absolutely no reason for a cat to lose its home. For other behavioral issues: again, see your vet or an animal trainer/behaviorist. Also get advice from animal welfare groups. We love to help animals and their owners stay together. Get lots of opinions and recommendations. Be open-minded and willing to try to solve the problem. Most of the time, these problems can be resolved with a little effort on the owner’s part.

• “We have allergies in the family…”Be willing to try different things before placing your animal in a shelter or another home. Today, so many products exist to keep you and your pet together – from topical products that can be brushed through your pet’s fur, to medication that can be put in your pet’s water.