What does the rise in pet surrenders mean for NYC shelters?

Question

Accepted Answer

NYC Shelters Face Overcapacity Due to Rising Pet Surrenders

New York City animal shelters are experiencing a significant increase in pet surrenders, leading to near-capacity levels and a critical need for adopters and fosters. The number of animals entering Animal Care Centers (ACC) has more than doubled since February, with daily intakes escalating and projections indicating continued high numbers through the summer. This surge contrasts sharply with the adoption boom seen at the pandemic's outset.
Significant Increase in Animal Intake

In June, ACC received 1,393 animals, a substantial rise from the 631 animals admitted in February. This upward trend has been consistent each month since February. The daily average of incoming pets more than doubled from 21 in February to 47 in June. Projections suggest this rate could climb to 60-80 pets per day throughout the summer months, placing immense strain on shelter resources.
Landlord Issues and Financial Hardship as Key Factors

Approximately half of the pets being surrendered are due to "landlord issues," according to ACC. This is potentially linked to individuals facing financial difficulties and the recent lifting of the pandemic-related eviction moratorium, which may be forcing pet owners to relinquish their animals. These external pressures are contributing to the growing number of animals needing shelter.
Shift from Pandemic Adoption Surge

During the initial stages of the Covid-19 pandemic, shelters witnessed a surge in adoptions, driven by New Yorkers seeking companionship amidst lockdowns and isolation. At one point, ACC's animal population had decreased to a low of 125 animals. This period of high adoption demand has now reversed, creating a challenging situation for the shelters.
Shelters Reaching Capacity and Urgently Needing Support

Currently, ACC is directly housing 633 animals and has hundreds more in foster care. This situation has left shelters at or near their capacity. The demand for adoptions has consequently dropped, leaving ACC in "desperate need of adopters and/or fosters" to manage the influx of animals and alleviate the strain on their facilities.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

What does the rise in pet surrenders mean for NYC shelters?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

1

0

0

Share with friends