TAMPA, FL — A local animal rescue organization has issued a groundbreaking public service announcement, urging residents to refrain from abandoning their pets. The unprecedented plea comes after a noticeable uptick in animals found tied to lampposts, left in cardboard boxes, or simply 'misplaced' on the side of busy highways.

“We really thought this was a given,” stated Brenda Peterson, spokesperson for the 'Paws & Reflect' Animal Sanctuary, wiping a tear from her eye as a three-legged chihuahua gnawed on her shoelace. “Like, ‘don’t set your house on fire’ or ‘chew with your mouth closed.’ But apparently, we need to explicitly state: animals are not disposable furniture. They have feelings. And, frankly, they make terrible lawn ornaments.”

The sanctuary’s campaign, titled 'They’re Not Trash, Karen,' aims to re-educate the public on the basic concept of pet ownership. Posters feature heartwarming images of dogs and cats alongside stark text reading: 'Still a pet. Not a problem you can just drive away from.' Peterson admitted the campaign was a last resort after previous, more subtle approaches, such as 'Please Don't Do That' and 'Seriously, Stop It,' proved ineffective.

Local resident Chad 'The Destroyer' Thompson, 34, expressed confusion. “So, you’re telling me that fluffy thing I got for the kids last Christmas, the one that sheds and needs walks, isn’t just a rental? I thought once it stopped being cute, it automatically despawned or something.”

Experts suggest the phenomenon may be linked to a societal decline in common sense, exacerbated by the ease of online shopping and the 'return anything, no questions asked' policy of major retailers. The sanctuary is now considering a follow-up campaign reminding people that children also require ongoing care and cannot be left at the nearest rest stop.