Shelters United is beta-testing its newest initiative, Pet Adoption Gateway. Pet adopters will be able to use the app and mobile-friendly website for personalized support and guidance throughout the adoption process, including product recommendations to help facilitate the process. The animal welfare organization that facilitates the adoption will receive a portion of the profits when a pet adopter uses Pet Adoption Gateway to purchase services, veterinary consults and supplies.
Shelters United is a cooperative buying program that allows nonprofit animal welfare organizations to purchase animal care products and supplies at discounted prices.
“Every year 4 million pets are adopted from animal welfare organizations,” said Mal Schwartz, Shelters United founder. “New pet owners typically spend between $1,200 and $2,500 in the first year, and none of that $5 billion goes back to the animal welfare group that did all the work to find the pet a home. We’re trying to help these organizations maximize their earning power from the products and services that are purchased by every new pet adopter after they leave the shelter, rescue, or foster organization.”
“A resource such as this could prevent adoption returns,” said Mark Neff, president and CEO of Forsyth Humane Society. “Adopters cannot take in all the information needed during the adoption process, so having an app or website to access would be good for them and the adopted pet.”
An estimated 3.2 million animals are adopted from animal shelters in the U.S. each year, and current estimates suggest that between 7% and 20% of adopted animals are returned. Reasons cited range from behavioral issues to personal reasons. Having a resource to help choose an appropriate new pet and properly introduce and acclimate them to their new home can help set the pet adopter up for success.
Five corporate partners, including Fear Free, Trupanion, QVC/TTCare, Embark DNA testing, and bSerene, have provided $500,000 for the Pet Adoption Gateway beta test.
“For decades, individuals and groups have tried and failed to help new pet parents become educated, trained, and inspired to successfully adopt a new pet and provide him or her with a healthy, happy, forever home,” said Marty Becker, DVM, Fear Free’s founder and CEO. “Fear Free knows that by working with the Pet Adoption Gateway, we can create millions of new human-animal bonds. We can make pet parenting easier for busy pet moms and dads and help ensure pets live their happiest, healthiest, fullest life possible.”
The Pet Adoption Gateway beta test launches in July and will include 15 to 21 animal welfare organizations. Interested nonprofit companies and potential corporate partners and investors can contact Shelter United at petadoptiongateway.com.