What kind of owner leaves a pet behind???! The bad thing is that I'm not even surprised anymore... My friend has been working in an animal shelter for a few years now and I've heard enough about this. How many animals are abandoned is unbelievable. Cats, dogs, rabbits, even hamsters. Fortunately there are people who'd bring them to the shelter if they find them, but then the animals spend years in there because no one wants to adopt them.
If you think about getting a pet, please adopt it from the shelter. There are so many ones waiting for someone who would love them that buying one from a pet store is almost a crime. And for God's sake, be a responsible owner. Every pet is a commitment and if you aren't ready for that, better get yourself a stuffed toy.