Animals abandoned in rental properties when tenants move represent a preventable welfare crisis.
Animals abandoned in rental properties suffer from a combination of acute welfare harms — confinement without food, water, or care — and the broader welfare crisis of homelessness and uncertainty that follows discovery. Most abandonments occur when tenants move, particularly when moving to housing that does not accept pets. Pet-inclusive housing policies — which allow tenants to keep pets with appropriate deposits and conditions — are the most effective prevention. Emergency foster networks and anonymous surrender programs also provide alternatives to abandonment for owners in crisis.