Things may be looking up for dogs in need! You may already know that Leona Helmsley left $12 million to her Maltese, when she passed away last August. But you may not know that she bequeathed nearly all of her remaining estate (an estimated $5 billion to $8 billion) to the care and welfare of dogs, as explained in a recent New York Times article. This is good news, if the money really goes to the dogs.

Now it is up to the trustees of the Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust, also the executors of her will, to properly allocate the money. Considerations include animal welfare groups, shelters, and veterinary schools. Beacause Mrs. Helmsley's will did not designate specific charities, the trustees must make some decisions. The question is: Will it all really go to dog-related charities? Where do you think this money should go?

If you're reading this, you're probably not the type of person who would abandon your dog. Unfortunately, there are many people out there who might. Every day, I read several news stories about pets who have been left for dead. Some do not survive, others become critically ill. The fact is, pets are being left behind after their owners lose everything -- and it's happening in record numbers. Not all of these owners are terrible people, some may just be overwhelmed and misinformed. Losing a home, a job, or both can make it nearly impossible to take care of pets. However, there are solutions that will not victimize innocent pets.

As animal lovers we can help spread the word about the alternatives to dumping a pet. If you know someone who has fallen on hard times, or if you think someone you know might abandon a pet, please step in and try to help.

Tell us: How has the current economy and housing crisis affected you, your pets, and your community? Share your story here.