DEAR PAW’S CORNER: When my grandmother passed away last fall, she left behind two beautiful cats. No one else in the family wanted to take care of them, so I took them in. However, I’m financially unable to care for them long-term, and the apartment complex I live in does not allow pets. I’m on borrowed time (and money) at this point, and praying that my apartment manager doesn’t find out about the cats. I contacted a shelter nearby to find out if they will accept the cats. They said there is a “surrender fee” of $200. No way can I pay that; I’m on a fixed income. What alternatives do I have? — Sherrie R., via email
DEAR SHERRIE: I’m sorry to hear about your predicament. You have extended your home and finances to care for two cats in need, and I salute you for it. But you’re right: the current situation is not ideal for you or the cats.
When preparing to surrender a pet, the receiving shelter will request that you try every possible option first. Many shelters will provide advice and limited assistance for pet owners going through this. One option would be for you to contact family members and friends directly (not on public social media posts) to ask if they would be able to adopt the cats.
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If a surrender to the shelter is the last resort, contact your family to see if they can chip in for the surrender fees. After all, you’ve already taken on the cost of food, supplies and maybe medical care for them. You’ve taken on the risk of losing your lease, too. Speak calmly with your relatives about sharing the cost. Best of luck.
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