Animal shelters across New York state are grappling with an unprecedented surge in occupancy, with one major contributing factor being the alarming increase in cases of pet abandonment.
Sweetie Pie, a lone canine discovered outdoors, is now seeking a new home at the Lollypop Farm Humane Society of Greater Rochester. Authorities at Lollypop Farm are uncertain if Sweetie Pie, like two of her companions currently residing at the shelter, was deliberately abandoned. The latter pair was found confined in a crate outside a local veterinary hospital.
Vice President of Law Enforcement at Lollypop Farm, Reno DiDomenico, expressed concern over the growing trend, stating, “We’re getting a lot more animals dumped at locations and as well as here. We get a lot of animals dropped off here as well. So it’s a communitywide thing.” Despite the location of abandonment, DiDomenico emphasized that leaving animals unattended is illegal, constituting a misdemeanor offense.
“Regardless of whether it’s here or out in the general public, it’s a misdemeanor offense to leave an animal unattended at a location,” DiDomenico asserted. “Even if they brought the animal here, it’s a crime, particularly if it’s after hours. You need to hand that animal over to someone who is competent, or at least let someone know that you’ve left that animal in their care.”
Lollypop Farm underscored that there are various resources available to pet owners facing challenges, according to Ashley Zeh, Director of Communications. Zeh stated, “But there are a lot of resources. So if you are struggling, if you are finding any challenge to having a pet because they’re always going to be one or two bumps in the road and some are bigger than others. We are here to help.”
To address the issue, organizations like Lollypop Farm offer multiple options to assist struggling pet owners. Zeh highlighted, “Our admissions department, they do consultations to one, help people try and keep their pet whenever possible. Our pet pantry has given out 20,000 pounds of food this year alone. So, if it’s financial assistance, we’re there. If it’s a real emergency, you know we’re there for that too.”
For those compelled to relinquish their dogs, a safe and legal process is available. DiDomenico advised, “So, the legal way would be to contact either Lollypop Farm or another local shelter for a certified New York State rescue, tell them you want to give up their animal.” Working collaboratively with shelters ensures a smoother process and better outcomes for the animals involved.
“It’s really important to work with us so that we can help you,” emphasized Zeh. The ultimate goal is to secure the well-being of the animals in transition. Lollypop Farm reported that the two dogs left abandoned and Sweetie Pie are currently faring well under their care.
