Pandemic Effects, Staffing Shortage and Slowing Adoption Rates Among Reasons Why Shelters Are Overcapacity
For the last few years, animal shelters have been making pleas for adopters to step forward as the overcrowding situation continues. According to the ASPCA, about 6.3 million animals enter shelters across the country every year with only 4.1 million shelter animals getting adopted.
A Rhode Island news station, WPRI, recently reported on local animal shelters and the reason why they're reaching their spacing limits. It can't be pinpointed to one reason as there are several different factors. But what these shelters are experiencing is the same that's happening nationally.
Wow, this is truly so heartbreaking. Although this news report only talked to two local Rhode Island shelters, the truth is that this is happening all over the country. Pet ownership spiked to about 70% of households in 2020. Pets played an important role in comforting people during the COVID pandemic.
But as animal adoptions and pet ownership increased during the pandemic years, the services like spay and neutering waned, leading to plenty of liters that had nowhere to go but the shelter. On top of the influx of animals getting surrendered to shelters, there is a staffing shortage. One woman in the video said they get several calls a day asking if they have the capacity to take in new animals. She doesn't know if it's due to the economy and people aren't able to afford pets or the vet care that comes with it, but the adoption rates have slowed. So the mix of all three is making shelters reach capacity.
If you ever needed a sign to adopt, don't shop, this is it. Now more than ever are animal shelters in need of help. Donations, adoptions, and fostering an animal can truly go a long way. Reach out to your local shelter to see how you can help.
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