WHAS11 coverage

(CNN) -In the midst of these bad economic times, more and more people are giving up their homes, and even abandoning their furry friends.

 Metro Animal Control Officer Billy Biggs stays busy capturing stray dogs in Nashville, Tennessee.  As the economy worsens, Biggs says he's recently seen an increase in the number of dogs being dropped off at the pound.

He says that many owners say they cannot afford to keep or care for their pets.

When times get tough, often pets are the ones who suffer the consequences.  

He recalls, “I know one that I went on personally. The guy got foreclosed on and he left all five of his animals there, and one had 11 puppies.”  

In the adoption area of Metro Animal Control, there are multiple dogs which were turned in by owners who could no longer afford to keep them.

And when the kennels are full, it means bad news for the animals. 

Biggs admits, “It means more euthanasia. We have to make room for the other ones that come in.”

 The good news, according to Billy Biggs, is that people are still coming in and adopting animals. 

He says, “Our adoption rates have been pretty steady, but still there are not enough homes for all of them." 

There are plenty of animals just waiting for new homes this holiday season.

If you are interested in adding another member to your family, check out your nearest animal shelter.