Pet Population in Shelters Surges
In comparison to the same period in 2022, Shelter Animals Count, a nonprofit organization monitoring unhoused pet populations, reports that animal shelters currently house approximately a quarter of a million more animals this holiday season. Stephanie Filer, the executive director of the organization, mentioned that this figure would be even higher if not for existing overcrowding and limited shelter space.
During the pandemic, nearly one in five households in the United States adopted a pet, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). Even President Biden welcomed a dog named Commander and a cat named Willow into the White House. At one point, the pandemic led to 70 percent of U.S. households owning pets. Of all households, 54 percent owned dogs, as reported by the American Pet Products Association trade group (APPA).
However, as the economy soured and inflation soared to record heights, consumers’ purchasing power diminished, resulting in a decline in pet adoptions. This, in turn, placed strain on rescue facilities already constrained by limited space for unwanted cats and dogs, stated Filer. Currently, approximately two-thirds of households own a pet, according to APPA, with half owning dogs.
Unplanned Breeding and Rising Costs
Despite the slowdown in pet adoptions, the pet population has continued to increase significantly. Research conducted by the University of Florida’s College of Veterinary Medicine reveals that nearly 3 million spay or neuter surgeries were skipped in 2020 and 2021. Consequently, shelters have experienced a significant influx of puppies, including popular breeds like French bulldogs or purposeful breed crosses like labradoodles.
The availability of thousands of dollars in stimulus funds to individuals and households during the pandemic made pet ownership affordable for many families. However, the end of the pandemic and the government’s fiscal tightening temporarily threatened to create an economic divide between the middle and working classes with regard to pet ownership.
As a result, the cost of animal care has risen dramatically. According to Brandy Keck, head of veterinary and pet-care facility lending for Live Oak Bank, veterinarians and pet-care businesses increased prices to cope with higher demand and rising business costs, including borrowing, payroll, and materials. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a 9 percent jump in the cost of veterinary services from November 2022 to November 2023.
Improved Economic Outlook and Potential Boost for Pet Industry
Experts suggest that prospective pet owners often make adoption decisions based on their economic prospects, and financial forecasts are currently improving. The Federal Reserve has even signaled a potential interest rate cut in 2024, which would reduce borrowing costs for the first time since March 2022.
Such a move could greatly benefit the pet industry, which heavily relies on affordable financing to support costly equipment, such as X-ray machines in medical offices, as well as expansion efforts to accommodate growing demand. In the first half of 2023, Keck noted that veterinary and pet-care facility businesses held back on new projects due to concerns of an economic downturn. However, by June, the situation shifted, leading to increased borrowing, expanded services, and heightened competition in the pet industry, potentially driving down consumer costs in the long run.
Assistance Needed During the Holiday Season
Despite signs of economic improvement, animal shelters are still grappling with overcrowding, particularly during this holiday season. Filer suggests that households consider volunteering to foster animals, as this significantly boosts the chances of dogs finding permanent homes. Temporary outings or fostering pets for a night or two can increase adoption rates by up to 1,400 percent, according to a study published in the journal Animals, conducted by researchers from Arizona State University and Virginia Tech.
If pet owners are struggling to provide for their animals, they are encouraged to promptly contact shelters or rescue organizations for assistance. Filer advises against waiting until there are no other options available before seeking help.