The home foreclosure crisis has affected The Humane Society of Ventura County Shelter in Ojai.

Families losing their homes and moving into rental properties must leave their pets behind and are turning to the Humane Society Shelter to take dogs and cats and put them up for adoption. Since it is a nokill shelter, many want to be sure their pets find a new home.

This increase has become a financial hit to the shelter. The cost of gasoline has increased to more than $100 per fillup for the Humane Officer van. Food costs to feed the animals have increased.

The society is issuing an appeal for donations so the shelter can continue to feed, house and care for the animals.

The shelter is at 402 Bryant St. in Ojai. The Humane Society receives no governmental funds and relies entirely on donations from the public.

For more information or to make a donation, call (805) 6466505 or visit the society's website at www.humanesocietyvc.org.