A heartbreaking economic indicator: More people are giving up their pets

In Melissa Knicely’s nearly 19 years at a North Carolina animal shelter, she’s learned to spot an unofficial and heart-wrenching sign that the economy may be taking a turn for the worse: When there’s a surge in the number of people looking to give up their pets. That happened in the late 2000s, during regional layoffs, and more recently, when inflation spiked. Now, at Charlotte-Mecklenburg Animal Care & Control, where Knicely works, owner surrenders have increased nearly 43% compared to last year.

• Across the U.S., shelters and rescues are seeing a sharp rise in pet surrenders, mostly tied to financial hardship. The cost of owning a pet — from vet visits and food to basic supplies has grown significantly.

• For many, the breaking point comes when they can no longer afford housing that allows animals. Cheaper rentals often have pet restrictions, forcing painful decisions on families.

• At Ruff Start Rescue in Minnesota, owner surrender applications have climbed to 1,496 this year, up from 1,292 in the same period last year. On some days, they receive more than 20 applications, many involving multiple pets.

• Larger dogs are especially affected. They require more food, often face breed restrictions, and their medical care is costlier. As a result, there’s a shortage of fosters willing or able to care for them.

• Shelters in major cities are overwhelmed. In New York City, Animal Care Centers reached “critical capacity” in July and stopped accepting owner surrenders. In Chicago, animal intake rose to an average of 56 per day in May, up from 54 in April, putting serious pressure on resources.

• Cesar Perea of the American Humane Society calls this a “perfect storm”: economic instability, a vet shortage, stricter rental policies post-pandemic, and pandemic pets with behavioral challenges due to isolation.

• In Los Angeles County, a growing number of animals are being surrendered due to immigration-related deportations. Animal control is working to offer support  including food and medical care  to help keep pets in their homes when possible.

How to help or get help

• If you’re struggling, reach out before it becomes an emergency. Shelters and rescues may offer free food, vet care, training, and short-term fostering options.

• Never abandon your pet. Try rehoming with someone you trust, but vet them carefully. Some local agencies also specialize in breed-specific rescues or no-kill alternatives.

• Want to make a difference? Become a foster, volunteer at a shelter, or donate to vetted rescue groups. Even small efforts can help keep pets safe and loved.