Otherwise, you should visit your local welfare department. If you qualify, a representative will become your case worker. This person will work details out with your landlord--taking some of pressure off of you. If you wish to stay in apartment and landlord wants you there, too, welfare will have him sign an agreement saying they can send him a check for rent.

If you want to move, or your landlord won't agree to let you stay, welfare can help by paying for a security deposit, utility deposit and moving costs for your new apartment.

For more information on local outreach programs, visit Emergency Food and Shelter National Board Program's web page.. There you will find a box where you can type in your zip code and find program nearest to you.

# Pets help people be more sociable. People out walking their dogs have a greater tendency to socialize with passersby; their pets give them security and provide a ready-made topic for conversation. Even among families and friends, pets provide a focus of conversation and activity.

# Pets stimulate exercise. Pets promote vitality through active exercise - such as brisk walking and outdoor games - or therapy for disabled hands through regular grooming of pets.

# Pets comfort with touch. The gentle stroking of a pet can reduce stress and lower blood pressure and, when combined with quiet talk, create a feeling of relaxation, intimacy, and closeness.

Hoping to reduce number of animals unnecessarily put to sleep, Humane Society attempts to bridge gap between reluctant landlords and pet lovers by addressing needs and concerns of both parties. Visit HSUS web site at: http://www.rentwithpets.org/

Also See: # Moving Your Pet # Pet Policies: Pleading Your Case Successfully # Are Your Pets Soiling Your Chances of Selling Your Home?