The first half of 2024 has seen a decrease in pet intake, with nearly 5% fewer dogs and cats entering shelters compared to the same period last year, according to Shelter Animals Count (SAC), the most trusted and current source for animal sheltering data. Despite lower intakes, adoptions are also down, leading to rising populations and longer stays for animals in shelters.
In 2024, approximately 82,000 fewer dogs and cats have been adopted compared to 2023. Specifically, dog adoptions decreased by 5% (59,000 fewer), while cat adoptions fell by 2% (23,000 fewer). This decline in adoptions coincides with findings from the newly released 2024 Hill’s Pet Nutrition State of Shelter Pet Adoption Report, which highlights financial concerns as a significant barrier to pet ownership. The report indicates that financial worries, particularly about the cost of veterinary care, are deterring potential adopters.
Stephanie Filer, executive director of Shelter Animals Count, stated, “Everyone deserves the joy of having an animal companion, regardless of income. However, when budgets are tight, financial fears can discourage people from welcoming a pet into their home. Adopting a pet from a shelter is often the most cost-effective way to add a pet to your family, saving both a life and money.”
The Hill's Pet Nutrition report notes that individuals earning less than $75,000 per year are finding pet ownership increasingly inaccessible, with 43% of respondents citing overall cost as the biggest challenge. Additionally, those earning less than $50,000 are more likely to encounter pet-related housing restrictions and find veterinary care costs prohibitive.
Key findings from the report emphasize that 84% of respondents identified veterinary care as the most expensive aspect of pet ownership. The inclusion of spay/neuter services, vaccinations, and often microchipping with the adoption fee from shelters, significantly reduces initial costs. These services can save adopters hundreds of dollars, making shelter adoption a financially advantageous choice.
Shelter adoption also provides health benefits, such as preventing certain cancers and infections and avoiding pregnancy-related risks for female pets. Spayed/neutered pets often exhibit fewer behavior issues, such as roaming and aggression, making them easier family members.
Additional Data from SAC’s Mid-Year Analysis Report
- From January to June 2024, 3,118,000 dogs and cats entered shelters and rescues in the U.S., comprising 1,553,000 dogs and 1,565,000 cats
- The number of pets entering shelters exceeds those leaving by 322,000, with shelters experiencing ongoing capacity challenges
- Community intakes are down almost 5% compared to the same period last year, totaling 155,000 fewer dogs and cats
- Dog strays and owner surrenders are down 6% (55,000) and 4% (22,000), respectively, compared to 2023, while stray intakes for cats decreased by nearly 7% (66,000)
In 2023, 6.5 million dogs and cats entered animal shelters and rescue organizations. Many shelters are at or over capacity, highlighting the urgent need for more adoptions.
