NEW YORK (WPIX) - When you think about the struggling economy you probably don't think about the effect it's having on cats and dogs. But everyday families are forced with the heartbreaking decision of having to give up their pets.

"It's really heartbreaking," said Dori Scofield founder of Save-A-Pet in Port Jefferson Station. "I've had grown men coming in here crying giving up their animals."

In the past couple of months, Save-a-Pet has taken in more than 60 cats and dogs from families that can no longer afford to take care their beloved animals. Families hit hard by the recession that have lost their jobs and having difficulty feeding their pets and paying for their vet bills.

Save-a-Pet, a not for profit no kill shelter, has been trying to help struggling families keep their animals.

"There are a lot of low cost vet clinics now. Vets that are trying to help. There are food pantry's now for animals....there are several of them on Long Island," said Scofield.

Since there are so many foreclosures in Suffolk County, many people have been forced out of their homes, losing space and yards for their pets.

"Her owners had to move into an apartment that would not allow pets," said Scofield. "If there were more landlords that allow pets that would help a lot because a lot of people don't want to give up their pets, they're just forced too."

For more information on Save-A-Pet, click here.