Pets are now feeling the pain of a tough economy.

Many owners are giving them up because they can't afford to take care of them.

At the Elkhart County Humane Society they've seen many cats and dogs dropped off because their owners couldn't afford the food or medical bills.

Many owners have been forced out of their homes and couldn't take the pets with them.

It's tough on the pets, people, plus the shelters which are filling up fast.

“People are forced to move into apartments and we have seen people that have to move out so quickly because of foreclosures. They are not able to bring the animal to a family or friend’s houses. So it is very disheartening that many people have to give up their animals,” says Eric Durcinka from the Elkhart County Humane Society.

The Elkhart County Humane Society offers a food assistance program.

It is based on financial need and if you qualify you can get free pet food for a certain amount of time.

Also many shelters will help pay for the spay or neuter surgery for an animal.

For more information on Elkhart County Humane Society’s program go to
http://www.elkharthumanesociety.org/