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Innocent Dog Kicked to the Curb After Owner’s Heartbreaking Eviction
The nationwide eviction crisis has claimed another victim – T Boo, a 6.5-year-old, 87-pound terrier mix. Boo arrived at the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter in Wantagh, New York after her owner tragically lost his housing.
“It’s a situation we’re seeing far too often,” said Hilary Flanagan, the shelter’s manager. “As eviction rates climb due to the affordable housing shortage, family pets like Boo are paying the price through no fault of their own.”
A Gentle Soul in Need of a Forever Home
Despite her tough exterior, Boo is an absolute sweetheart. Her warm brown and white markings, resembling a spotted cow, hide a pup with impressive obedience skills and an eagerness to learn.
“Boo already knows basic commands like ‘sit’ and is friendly with new people,” Flanagan explained. “With some tasty treats and patience, she’ll definitely impress her new owners by picking up tricks in no time. Those giant ears miss nothing!”
While Boo has made strides with leash training at the shelter, her sizeable stature means her forever family will need to continue reinforcing good manners during walks. But Flanagan stressed the work is well worth it for such a loving, loyal companion.
A Housing Crisis Claiming Innocent Victims
Boo’s story is just one of countless tales highlighting the collateral damage caused by America’s housing instability. The choice to surrender a beloved pet is never an easy one, made only out of desperation.
“No owner wants to part with their fur baby, but so many feel they have no other option when faced with eviction,” Flanagan said. “Surrendering a dog is preferable to abandoning them on the streets.”
The shelter manager urged anyone impacted by housing insecurity to explore local resources before relinquishing their pet, including food pantries, mobile vet clinics, temporary foster networks, and grants.
If you MUST Surrender Your Dog
However, Flanagan acknowledged that sometimes, despite an owner’s best efforts, surrendering is the only option. “Rehoming your dog to a shelter or rescue is incredibly painful, but failing to do so can enable even more suffering through potential abandonment or neglect,” she said solemnly.
If forced to surrender, Flanagan stressed the importance of thoroughly vetting potential rescue organizations over county/municipal shelters, which are often overcrowded and may be more liberal with euthanasia practices.
“Start by asking friends, family or your veterinarian if they have any reputable rescues to recommend in your area,” she advised. “Breed-specific or general dog rescues are ideal, as they often utilize foster-based networks to reduce overcrowding in shelter kennels.”
Don’t use Craig’s List
She also cautioned against the danger of listing a dog for free online, such as on Craigslist. “There are dishonest people who acquire pets this way for horrific reasons like animal fighting or baiting. You’re essentially putting a vulnerable dog in the hands of potential abusers.”
“The unfortunate truth is, many shelters are drowning in the pet overpopulation crisis,” Flanagan said. “Choosing a rescue truly devoted to the welfare of every animal that passes through their doors is vital to ensure your beloved pet has a real chance at a new life and family.”
Adopt Boo
For Boo, that second chance at happiness starts now. The high-energy girl, who does best as an only pet, is eager to finally find her forever family.
As Flanagan said, “She’s been through so much already. Boo deserves a loving home that will shower her with belly rubs and see just how amazing those ears can be.”
