The share of ability-based surrender requests is increasing at larger shelters like the Idaho Humane Society, too.
“We believe it’s just due to the inflation and the housing costs that are increasing here in the Treasure Valley,” said Public Relations and Digital Media Manager Kristine Schellhaas.
Not all surrenders are because of an inability to afford a pet or a rental-related housing issue. Some pets arrive after the death of their owner; sometimes a job change prompts a relocation and keeping a pet is not possible.
Schellhaas says last year, the humane society adopted out 6,763 animals; most dogs are able to be placed in a new home within 48 hours. It’s a huge operation, with around 10,000 animals arriving last year. About 20% of that total were surrender requests, Schellhaas said, but she noted adoptions haven’t slowed down. Read more…