Fair weather pets : These states have seen the biggest change in cats surrendered to shelters

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The surge in pet adoption has led to an increase in the number of animals in shelters, but the shelters themselves have adapted to the new reality.

Shelters Adapt to the New Reality

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about a significant shift in the way people live, work, and interact with their pets. As a result, many households have welcomed new furry friends into their homes, leading to a surge in pet adoption. Shelters, which were once filled with abandoned and unwanted animals, have seen a notable increase in the number of animals in their care. However, this influx of new animals has also presented challenges for shelters, which have had to adapt to the new reality.

Challenges Faced by Shelters

  • Increased costs: The surge in pet adoption has led to an increase in the number of animals in shelters, which has resulted in higher costs for food, veterinary care, and other supplies. Space constraints: Shelters have limited space, and the influx of new animals has put a strain on their facilities. Staffing challenges: Shelters have had to hire additional staff to care for the increased number of animals, which has put a strain on their resources. ## Shelters Find Creative Solutions*
  • Shelters Find Creative Solutions

    Despite the challenges, shelters have found creative solutions to address the issues they face. Some shelters have implemented innovative programs to reduce costs, such as:

  • Low-cost vaccination clinics: Many shelters have set up low-cost vaccination clinics to provide essential medical care to the animals in their care.

    Pet ownership is on the rise, with benefits for physical and mental health, but also significant expenses.

    The average cost of owning a cat is around $1,000 per year, with expenses including food, litter, and veterinary care.

    The Rise of Pet Ownership

    In recent years, pet ownership has experienced a significant surge. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated this trend, as people turned to their pets for companionship and emotional support during the lockdowns. As a result, the number of pet owners has increased, and the pet industry has experienced a substantial growth. Key statistics: + 67% of households in the United States have at least one pet (American Pet Products Association, 2020) + The global pet industry is projected to reach $281 billion by 2023 (Euromonitor International, 2020) + Pet owners spend an average of $1,149 per year on their pets (ASPCA, 2020)

    The Benefits of Pet Ownership

    Pet ownership has numerous benefits for both physical and mental health. Studies have shown that owning a pet can:

  • Lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels
  • Reduce stress and anxiety
  • Improve cardiovascular health
  • Increase social connections and community engagement
  • The Cost of Pet Ownership

    While pet ownership can be beneficial, it also comes with significant expenses.

    The lack of data makes it difficult to determine the true extent of this issue.

    The Financial Burden of Pet Ownership

    Pet ownership can be a costly endeavor, with expenses ranging from food and veterinary care to supplies and equipment. According to the American Pet Products Association (APPA), the average annual cost of owning a pet in the United States is around $1,500.

    The unemployment rate in New Mexico is higher than the national average of 3.5%.

    The Unemployment Crisis in New Mexico

    New Mexico’s unemployment rate has been a pressing concern for policymakers and residents alike. The state’s economy has been struggling to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, which had a devastating impact on various industries, including tourism, hospitality, and manufacturing.

    Factors Contributing to the Unemployment Crisis

    Several factors have contributed to New Mexico’s high unemployment rate. Some of the key factors include:

  • Low wages: New Mexico has some of the lowest wages in the country, making it difficult for residents to make ends meet and afford basic necessities. Limited job opportunities: The state’s economy is heavily reliant on a few industries, such as oil and gas, which can be volatile and unpredictable.

    North Dakota and South Dakota both have exceedingly high cat surrender rates, at 17.6% and 15.5%, respectively. Although the Dakotas also have plummeting employment rates, the increase in surrenders may be due to multiple factors. The Animal Legal Defense Fund ranked North Dakota as the worst state for animal protection laws, according to the 2023 U.S. State Animal Protection Laws Ranking Report. The uptick in surrendered animals could also be due to a “COVID-19 kickback,” with people who adopted pets during the pandemic now unable to care for their companions, according to the Central Dakota Humane Society. The surge in pet intakes in South Dakota shelters could be due to “a mix of overpopulation of animals from breeders in 2020 when demand for pets was high, and a higher number of surrenders due to rising costs to care for pets,” Rescue Network’s South Dakota events coordinator, Lexa Rahn, told Dakota News Now.

    Preparing for Surrender

    Understanding the Reasons Behind Surrender

    Surrendering a pet can be a difficult and emotional experience. However, it’s essential to acknowledge that surrendering a pet is not a failure, but rather a necessary decision.

    They will guide you through the surrender process and provide support throughout the surrender.

    Surrendering a Pet: A Difficult Decision

    Surrendering a pet is never an easy decision, but sometimes it’s the only option. Whether it’s due to financial constraints, a change in lifestyle, or unforeseen circumstances, surrendering a pet can be a heart-wrenching experience. However, it’s essential to prioritize the pet’s welfare and safety above all else.

    Understanding the Surrender Process

    If surrendering a pet is the only option, contact the nearest Humane Society, ASPCA, or animal shelter and ask them how to initiate the process. The surrender process typically involves:

      • Filling out an intake form to provide information about the pet, including its breed, age, and medical history. Discussing the pet’s behavior, temperament, and any special needs. Reviewing the shelter’s policies and procedures. Scheduling a surrender appointment. ### Preparing for the Surrender*
      • Preparing for the Surrender

        Before surrendering a pet, it’s essential to prepare yourself and the pet for the transition. Here are some steps to take:

  • Gather necessary documents: Collect the pet’s vaccination records, medical history, and any relevant identification documents. Provide a safe and comfortable environment: Make sure the pet has a clean and comfortable place to stay during the surrender process.

    Story editing by Alizah Salario. Additional editing by Elisa Huang. Copy editing by Kristen Wegrzyn. Photo selection by Ania Antecka.

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