By Raegan Scharfetter/managing editor

People are not the only victims when natural disasters strike.

Animal victims of Hurricane Harvey and Hurricane Irma have been neglected and stranded alone to fight for their lives.

Many animals have been rescued or evacuated from shelters in the affected areas hit by these two deadly hurricanes. However, many did not make it through.

No matter the circumstance, a pet is a member of the family and should never be left alone to drown or starve.

A huge problem occurring in Texas is abandoned animals are not up for adoption. Abandoned animals will ultimately go back with their families, if you want to call them that.

Although Texas is allowing this, authorities in south Florida are considering pursuing felony charges against people who abandoned their animals as Hurricane Irma approached.

If one feels responsible enough to adopt an animal, one should be responsible for their lives in the midst of a crisis. Pets are not just here for the amusement or disposal of humans.

The SPCA of Texas took in more than 100 animals from a Corpus Christi shelter before Harvey hit and is providing housing for numerous animals in Dallas.

Organizations across the U.S., have been receiving hundreds of animals to open shelter space in immediate areas such as Texas and Florida.

With the number of incoming animals in shelters, it is a call to action for people to adopt and foster.

If unable to adopt or foster but still interested in helping these animals, donations can be made directly to Texas groups on the ground aiding animals, including Austin Pets Alive, Houston Pets Alive, the Harris County Animal Shelter, the SPCA of Brazoria County and the SPCA of Texas.

These animals deserve a loving and safe home with a family who is not capable of ever abandoning them. Abandonment is one of the worst things someone can do to an animal, and there is no excuse for it.