When the economy is stuck in a slump, it’s only natural for people to wield their wallets with more care, but what does that mean for America’s animal companions? A sharp spike in home foreclosures has led Dr. Stephen Zawistowski, executive vice president of ASPCA Programs, to warn that between 500,000 and one million animals are at risk of ending up homeless. In order to ease the burden on animal shelters and prevent these companions from being left out in the cold, there are several things you can do. Opening your home to a rescue pet (even just temporarily as a foster guardian) is the obvious option, but every effort helps, including donating used blankets, towels, and tennis balls to your local shelter.