Household pets — not just distressed homeowners — are being forced to relocate because of the recent surge in foreclosures throughout the United States.

In many cases, these pets, which include predominantly cats and dogs, are being surrendered to local animal shelters. Unfortunately, there are also a large portion of pets nationwide that are simply being left behind to fend for themselves.

“It’s truly a very sad situation,” says Scott Lanz, founder of ForeclosurePets.org, a Web site that has recently emerged to combat the growing foreclosure pet abandonment epidemic. “Some household pets are just left in garages or backyards with little to no chance of survival. We’ve even heard reports of animals being found dead or near death by neighbors and Realtors® entering the homes. It’s bad,” he says.

Scott — who was compelled to lend a hand because of his love for animals — says that “someone had to do something” because there is simply no reason for it to happen. He runs the Web site in his spare time, hoping to connect the pets of distressed homeowners with “foster” or permanent families.

The ultimate goal, he says, is to provide a free resource that homeowners facing foreclosure nationwide can use as a last resort to ensure that they don’t leave their pets high and dry.

“We know that people in these situations feel like they have no other options and are heartbroken leaving their loved ones behind,” said Lanz. “But the good news is that ForeclosurePets.org can help them find temporary shelters in the area for their pets until they get back on there feet or place them in a new home permanently. There are options!”

Distressed homeowners can upload photos and descriptions of their pets on ForeclosurePets.org, as well as their contact information for potential foster or adoptive families. Likewise, people who are interested in adopting pets or serving as foster families can search for pets in their areas.

The site also offers a lost and found section, forum and other educational tools for anyone to view, learn and help change their current situations, as well as brings overall awareness to this important albeit underreported issue.

“Options are out there,” Lanz says. “There’s no reason to leave pets behind when there are available — and free — resources that can help out. Owners who have pets and are being forced out of their homes are encouraged to visit ForeclosurePets.org. We can help!”

To visit ForeclosurePets.org today CLICK HERE.