Incident an example of a pet owner in crisis

 The Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL) recently found new homes for a pair of 4-month-old puppies found tethered to a tree near ARL’s Dedham campus – there was no malicious intent but is yet another example of a pet owner in crisis.

ARL acknowledges that many pet owners are facing tremendous challenges – and when people struggle, pets struggle.

Sid and Poppie in Dedham.

The rising cost of pet care, the housing crisis and financial hardship are all having a tremendous impact and are unfortunately causing some pet owners to make difficult decisions, and in some cases, take drastic actions.

The puppies, Sid and Poppie, were discovered on the grounds of the Nobles and Greenough School, right next door to ARL’s Dedham campus on February 12 and were brought to ARL immediately upon being found by Dedham Animal Control.

The Mastiff-type dogs were wearing matching leashes and collars, and are in good condition – their coats are clean, nails are trimmed and they are both healthy.

 “ARL realizes many pet owners are struggling, and we want the public to know that ARL is a resource,” stated Dr. Edward Schettino, ARL President and CEO. “Through community-based programs and services and reinvesting in the City of Boston to rebuild our animal care and adoption center, ARL’s goal is make every effort to help keep pets in homes and out of shelters, and when surrender is the only option, to offer a safe, judgement-free environment to help pet owners through this difficult decision.”

 If you are a pet owner in crisis, ARL urges you to contact the organization to learn more about what resources may be available to help keep pets in homes and out of shelters.

If surrender is your only option, ARL understands that while difficult, surrendering an animal in-person not only protects the animal, but allows ARL to gather information to help the pet move quickly through the shelter system.

Learn more about how to properly surrender an animal at the Animal Rescue League of Boston.