I guess I understand that some people may not have a choice. Me though, I didn't get my animals to have to give them up when things get tough. They really are a part of our family. Some people say it but few actually mean it.
When I got out of the military in 2000, we had 2 dogs and 5 cats. We had adopted one cat and she got out and got pregnant before we got her spayed. We tried to adopt them out but couldn't. Since it was our fault she got pregnant we kept them. It is hard enough to find a place to live with a pet, let alone 7! Luckily we found a place but the wife and I were prepared to be homeless if we couldn't find a place. Some people will call that irresponsible I know. I've heard it all, from our family especially. But after coming through that I think they all realized that when we say they are part of the family, they really ARE part of the family.
Not a knock on anyone that has gotten rid of a pet. It's just something that the wife and I feel strongly about. I like animals more than people anyways.
All they ask for is food, water and some love and they'll be your best friend until the day they pass.