How to Reason With Animal Hoarders

Animal hoarding is related to object hoarding. While not officially listed as a mental illness, it is a form of obsessive-compulsive disorder. In general, hoarders do not mean any harm to the animals. They just keep obtaining pets until there are too many to care for. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, animal hoarders think that they are helping animals and not hurting them. It can be difficult to know how to reason with animal hoarders.

Instructions

• 1

  Verbally express your concerns. This is best done one-on-one with the animal hoarder. Just stating criticism isn't going to improve the situation. Make it clear that you will be a supportive friend both during and after treatment. Discuss how much easier life will be without all of the animals in the home.

• 2

  Listen without being confrontational. It is tempting to express dismay at the neglect of animals. That will not help resolve the situation. Offer your help in getting the animals what they need, and listen to concerns.

• 3

  Bring a therapist into the discussion. Animal hoarders need treatment. Simply removing the animals will not remedy the situation because hoarding animals can start again. Enlist the assistance of a qualified therapist, and together you can reason with the animal hoarder.

• 4

  Stay with the animal hoarder if it gets to the point that the police or animal rescue remove the animals. Just removing the animals from the home does not stop it from happening again. Reason that you will help get the house in order and make appointments for treatment. Discuss possible ways of decorating or designing the home as a distraction.