Pet surrender is a complex and challenging problem.
Pets are family members. most people say. But when economic hardship strikes, pet ownership can become an unmanageable burden. Animal surrender and abandonment rates increase during times of financial struggle. Sadly, many pet owners may feel forced to give up their beloved companions due to their inability to afford their care.
This content will explore the following ideas:
- The connection between economic struggles and pet surrender.
- Factors that contribute to this phenomenon
- The impact of pet surrender on animals.
The Connection between Economics and Pet Surrender
Research shows that financial hardship is significant in pet abandonment and surrender. According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), economic reasons are the most common reason for pet surrender.
A survey conducted by the organization found that 27% of respondents surrendered their pets due to financial constraints. Additionally, shelters and animal welfare organizations report increased relinquishment rates during economic hardship, such as during the 2008 financial crisis.
Factors that Contribute to Pet Surrender During Economic Hardship
Financial struggle can impact pet ownership in numerous ways. For many pet owners, veterinary bills and pet care expenses are significant costs they can no longer afford.
Unexpected medical bills or the cost of caring for an aging pet can quickly become unmanageable. Additionally, housing insecurity, particularly when resulting in eviction or homelessness, can force pet owners to surrender their pets if they cannot find pet-friendly housing. The inability to find pet-friendly housing can also prevent pet owners from moving to a more affordable location, leading to further financial struggles.
The Impact of Pet Surrender on Companion Animals
We discussed the broken hearts of owners. But what of the companion animals they surrender?
Surrendering to a shelter has significant consequences for pets, which can adversely affect their overall well-being. When pets are uprooted from their homes, they can experience severe emotional distress. That can manifest in many ways, including depression, anxiety, and behavioral problems. These emotional issues can impact pets for a long time, even after they find a new home. Pets may struggle to trust new owners. Their behavior may be challenging to manage due to their prior experiences.
In addition to the emotional impact, animal surrender can also have physical consequences for pets. When surrendered to overcrowded shelters, pets may be at risk of disease or injury. Overcrowded shelters can lead to poor living conditions. Think about cramped cages or a lack of appropriate medical care. These conditions can put pets at risk for illness or injury, making it difficult to find a new home.
Furthermore, high numbers of surrendered pets can lead to euthanasia, a heartbreaking outcome for any animal lover. When shelters become overcrowded, they may have to euthanize pets. That’s often the only means to make room for more incoming animals. This can be especially true for older animals, pets with medical conditions, or pets with behavioral issues, making it even more difficult for them to find a new home.
Animal surrender is a challenging issue with significant consequences for pets. By understanding the impact of surrender on pets, we can reduce the number of surrendered animals and ensure they receive the care and love they deserve. It is essential to recognize that pets are family members and deserve to be treated with the respect and care they deserve, even during difficult financial times.
Solutions and Alternatives
Fortunately, several solutions and alternatives are available to help pet owners during financial hardship. Many animal welfare organizations offer financial assistance for veterinary care and pet food.
Additionally, planning can help. For instance, pet insurance programs and healthcare financing options can help with unexpected medical bills.
Some housing organizations also provide pet-friendly housing options to assist needy pet owners. It is essential to research available resources in your community and plans for potential financial struggles before they occur.
Don’t purchase from a breeder or pet shop!
If you are a potential pet adopter in the local area, please adopt from a local shelter–Bertie County Animal Shelter and PAWS of Hertford County. Or choose another local rescue group–just adopt, don’t buy! These local organizations always have sweet cats and dogs looking for a new home. They do their best to provide care for every animal. At the end of the day, they can’t save them all. But you can save one.
The Takeaway: Shelter Turn-in Closely Links to Economic Downturns
Pets are treasured members of our families, and it is heartbreaking to see them surrendered due to financial struggles. It is essential to understand the link between economics and pet ownership and recognize the factors contributing to pet surrender.
By raising awareness of the issue and supporting resources and programs that assist pet owners in need, we can reduce the number of surrendered pets and ensure that pets and their families can stay together, even during tough economic times.
Do you live in Bertie County and struggle to feed your pets? Stop by one of our Pet Pantry locations for a helping hand. We follow the philosophy, give what you can, and take what you need. No judgment–take today and put some food back in the pantry when you get back on your feet.
Pantry locations are:
- Powellsville @ Powellsville Pet Clinic
- Windsor @ behind Rachel’s Bakery
- Askewville @ the town hall
- Kelford @ town hall (behind the building)