making sure pets have a home of their own

Pets are awesome. They change your life. And for most people who bring pets into their home, the magic is even more amazing than we could have even imagined. So it’s incredibly sad to know that many pets are abandoned by their owners every year – often, after the holidays.

Do pets require some work? Sure. Is every home a good home for pets? Probably not. That’s why we always recommend that people do some serious thinking, planning, and preparation before bringing a pet into their life. Banfield’s puppy hub is a great place to start, and a conversation with your local Banfield veterinary team can be a great way to learn about what it takes to take care of a pet. 

Why might people abandon a pet that trusted them?

“My dog barks too much,” “My cat destroyed my new furniture,” “ I’m moving to a new apartment that just doesn’t allow pets.”

The most common reasons can often seem pretty weak and unjustifiable, but the harsh reality is that sometimes the human-animal bond isn’t successful for a whole host of reasons. People often purchase or adopt pets without realizing the full scope of what being a pet owner is and when the pet develops a chronic illness or a behavioral problem, that person doesn’t have the funds or time to devote to working through the problem with an effective solution.

Shelters, rescue groups, and the Banfield Foundation can help

If you find yourself aware of a situation where a pet may lose their home due to financial difficulty or a behavioral issue, reach out to a local animal shelter or rescue organization. Many have a network of people and programs that can provide free or discounted medicine, food, or training for little to no cost if circumstances are dire. Learn more about shelters and pet adoption at the Humane Society and find resources for pet owners at the Banfield Foundation.