Companion Animals in the Gulf

In addition to affected wildlife, companion animals are feeling the aftermath of the BP oil spill, with more and more being relinquished to shelters by guardians who feel they can no longer take care of them. Guardians claim that because of the economic repercussions of the spill, they are no longer able to feed or care for the animals. As a result, shelters have become overcrowded. The Louisiana Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and the Humane Society of the United States are trying to alleviate the situation by sending animals to shelters out-of-state. Additionally, charities are trying to support affected guardians by providing food and vet care free-of-charge, so that they may keep the animals.