Hoarding is Not Helping

How Animal "Collection" is Hurting the Cause

At least once a month, I read an article about someone who has been housing too many animals in their homes. They are often reported to the authorities by their neighbors. Some of these folks have a mental compulsion to collect things--newspapers, take-out utensils, pets--while others think that by giving these animals a home, they are giving the animals a better life. In reality, in most circumstances, these folks don't fall into either category but rather are considered hoarders.

There was a particularly bad case in Maryland a few years ago, where an individual had housed over 100 dogs and cats in their home. The case got a lot of press and the animals were removed. Although I didn't witness this situation personally, I was fortunate enough to get a tour of the facility that took in these animals several months later.

The Humane Society of Harford County ended up with the bulk of the animals removed from this particular home. Working night and day, volunteers bathed, vetted, and cared for the dogs and cats that had come into their emergency care. They set up a makeshift kennel within several buildings on the shelter's property to house these animals. And in the end, most if not all of the animals were adopted.

Kudos to Harford County for doing what was needed to help these animals. It's unfortunate that the folks who worked so hard to save these animals and find them new homes didn't get the recognition that they deserved. More often than not, the bad guy gets all the press and the true heroes are forgotten.

While I have to believe that most of these people have good intentions, hoarding is bad for everyone. Animals are often neglected. Hoarders are not rescuers, although they may think that they are doing a good deed.

I have always thought that a good rule of thumb is: If you think you have too many animals, you probably do. I have four dogs, but I work from home and spend almost all of my waking (and even some sleeping) minutes with them all. When you can't tend to your animals and give them what they need, they won't thrive and it's not fair to them. 

A home with lots of other animals is not necessarily a good home. A pet is a lifelong commitment and a member of the family. Make sure that they receive the time, love, and attention that they deserve.