With the surge in foreclosures resulting in more homeless dogs, the Humane Society of the United States has created a new grant program for shelters and rescue groups.

Pets have been among the voiceless victims of the current economic downturn, with some families struggling to keep and feed pets, and others forced to leave them behind when foreclosed on, according to HSUS.

To ease the hardships, HSUS is offering grants to animal shelters, rescue groups and animal  control agencies to help establish, expand, or publicize services or programs that assist families in caring for their pets. Grants range from $500 to $2,000 per organization.

"Dealing with a financial crisis is scary enough," said Stephanie Shain, director of outreach for Companion Animals at the Humane Society of the United States. "We hope to ease the burden in some way for families by helping their local shelter help them keep their pet home and part of the family."

Examples of the types of programs that would be eligible for funding from The HSUS fund include organizations that are partnering with local food banks to donate and distribute pet food and supplies, and working with veterinarians to develop service vouchers to be distributed to people who need assistance with veterinary care.

HSUS officials urged families in crisis not to abandon pets. "No one likes to think of leaving their pet at a shelter, but if you can't take him with you, it is by far more humane than leaving them in an apartment or a house alone," said Shain. "

To see the press release about the new grants, click here.