Counting the Cost of Pet Ownership
Respondents to a recent survey are feeling the heftier price tag of pet ownership.
6.5 million
For the fourth year in a row, animal shelters across the country are facing an over-capacity crisis. According to Shelter Animals Count, 6.5 million cats and dogs entered shelters and rescues in 2023 alone, and populations increased by 900,000 animals since January 2021. New data from Shelter Animals Count indicates that animals of all sizes are experiencing an increased length of stay compared to 2019, fueling the shelter capacity crisis.
46%
The 2024 “Hill’s Pet Nutrition State of Shelter Pet Adoption Report” revealed that the cost of veterinary care continues to be the top barrier to pet adoption. A variety of economic data points in the survey relate to private practitioners, because they point to the number of potential clients veterinarians may (or may not) enjoy, as well as those clients’ potential demographics. Top concerns about pet ownership listed were:
- 46% overall cost of pet ownership
- 38% time and maintenance required
- 28% cost to adopt/acquire a pet
- 26% cost of pet food
- 15% access to pet-friendly housing
$75,000
Pet adoption is less accessible for people making less than $75,000, according to findings from the report. Those making less than $75,000 are more likely to surrender a pet due to financial difficulties and are more likely to say the cost of pet ownership exceeded their expectations, Hills reported. Those making less than $50,000 are more likely to have experienced at least one pet-related housing restriction and are more likely to say the cost of veterinary care impacts their decision to adopt.
90% and 94%
Despite these barriers, Americans (especially younger generations) still say they love shelter pets, with 66% of people reporting they are likely to adopt shelter pets. Of Gen Z and Millennials who’ve adopted a shelter pet before, 90% and 94% respectively are likely to adopt again. Of Gen Z and Millennials who’ve never adopted a shelter pet, 75% and 77% respectively are likely to adopt.
