National Non-Profit Helps Silent Victims of America's Foreclosure Crisis

When Denver homeowners think about foreclosures, abandoned animals are likely not the first thing that comes to mind. An organization called No Paws Left Behind (NPLB), based in Houston, TX, recently announced its 1,000^th “foreclosure animal rescue.” Over 1,000 abandoned pets have been successfully rescued and placed in "no kill" shelters, where foster care is provided until adoptive families can give them a good home.

As the number of foreclosures across the country has increased and upset the housing market, many homeowners have been faced with the trauma of leaving their homes. Often, they lack the financial means to continue caring for their pets, and end up abandoning them. Many pets are found locked in basements, garages, or simply left in backyards without food or water.

NPLB was formed by Cheryl Lang, President and CEO of Integrated Mortgage Solutions, (IMS) a leading provider of REO property inspections and rehabilitation. Lang created NPLB after coming face-to-face with countless abandoned animals at inspection sites. "Sadly, the current housing crisis has severely affected countless homeowners creating a trickle down negative effect on helpless animals," said Lang. "During routine housing inspections, we frequently discover animals left behind in deplorable conditions with no food and at times inadequate shelter."

Nationwide, NPLB has found homes and shelters for over 1,000 abandoned animals found on foreclosed properties. With community support from local shelters, rescue groups, and volunteers, NPLB provides food, shelter, and vaccinations to abandoned animals every day. The organization also provides immediate support to owners faced with the terrible decision of having to part with their pets – from locating a new home for the pet, to providing monetary assistance for pet deposits.

"We receive over 20 calls a week regarding an abandoned pet being left behind," said Lang. "It's just heartbreaking. Our goal is to be the voice of these silent victims and bring greater awareness and solutions to the growing phenomena of foreclosure pets."

As part of their Pet Awareness campaign, No Paws Left Behind recently launched a hardship pet deposit assistance program. This program provides homeowners in foreclosure with financial assistance, if they are unable to pay a pet deposit for a new home.

"We are thrilled and proud to have reached this momentous 1000^th pet rescue milestone," said Lang. "We will continue to strive to help homeowners and their pets through this foreclosure epidemic, so that no one is left behind without a home or shelter."

More people than ever are facing foreclosure, but there are options. Are you a homeowner who wants to avoid foreclosure in Denver and needs to know the alternatives available to you? Call the Bandy Team today. We're your local experts, and we can help you explore the alternatives to foreclosure. Let us assist you in determining the best outcome for your situation.