During tough economic times, people have a tendency to cut back on the little extras that make life more enjoyable. Usually this belt-tightening behavior concerns only material things like the cable bill, unlimited texting or dining out.

Many do not realize that domestic animals are also greatly affected by the downsizing effort, with some even abandoned by owners in difficult financial situations. Whether it is the result of moving into an apartment that prohibits animals, or simply the inability to continue paying the costs associated with having a pet, animal owners are more and more frequently being forced to give up their beloved pets.

Distraught pet owners should know that there is a humane option when faced with the possibility of abandonment. The Animal Haven Inc., a no-kill animal shelter located on 89 Mill Road, provides a modicum of relief to owners hesitant to give their beloved pets up to an uncertain future.

“In 1948, a group of animal lovers in Greater New Haven formed The Animal Haven, Inc., an animal shelter that temporarily houses orphaned adoptable cats and dogs until responsible, caring homes can be found for them,” said Liz Gallagher, president of The Animal Haven, Inc.

Indeed, the organization has a storied history that has seen a charitable idea morph into a happy reality with the help of many kind-hearted volunteers. Last year, they entered 314 animals from over 26 Connecticut towns into their kennel. Last year, 345 animals were eventually adopted.

The Animal Haven is a private organization operating without any funding from the government. It relies primarily on donations, grants and fundraisers to garner enough money to care for the animals in its kennel. Animal Haven holds fundraisers several times a month, usually at or in front of local pet supply stores. A few weeks ago, Animal Haven hosted an event in cooperation with North Shore Animal League America.

These events are important to the shelter because they provide opportunities for increased exposure that can eventually lead to more adoptions.

“We had a cat who had been here for a year. Someone saw her at the event on Saturday and took her home,” said head kennel assistant Judy Gunn. Animal Haven employs four kennel assistants to look after the animals. Most of the site's maintenance work is done by volunteers.

The Animal Haven is hosting several other charitable events in the near future, including a tag sale at 32 Ezra St. on June 20, and a dinner fundraiser at Aunt Chilada's on June 23. Donations are still being accepted for the tag sale.

Unfortunately, the effect the economy has had on The Animal Haven and similar organizations cannot be ignored. In hard economic times, people are more apt to abandon pets, not adopt new ones.

“It has affected us,” said Gunn. “We see donations dip when people are tightening their belts. People who are being displaced can't take their pets. They can't afford it”

For more information about Animal Haven visit www.theanimalhaven.com.