Pet Adoption: Heartwarming Stories and Abandonment

For every heartwarming tale we hear about dogs finding their forever homes, there's a darker side lurking in the background — the painful reality of pet abandonment. Behind every pet adoption is a story, and every story begins somewhere. Most pets either come from breeders or are adopted. Today, we’re focusing on the latter, specifically the motivations and challenges surrounding pet adoption.

The COVID-19 pandemic reshaped society in countless ways, and the world of pet ownership was no exception. Like so many aspects of life, the adoption of pets saw dramatic shifts before, during, and after the pandemic.

Before 2020, both in the U.S. and Europe, pet adoption rates were fairly stable. However, as the pandemic unfolded, the reasons for getting a pet became more pronounced. The demand for companionship skyrocketed, as people sought emotional support during times of isolation. Yet, not all adoptions were well thought out, and, sadly, many pets found themselves back in shelters or, even worse, abandoned.

But first, let’s take a look at the positive side — why do people adopt pets?

1. Companionship and Emotional Support: For many, adopting a pet means welcoming a source of unconditional love and emotional support into their homes. During the isolation of the pandemic, pets provided a sense of connection and a balm for mental health. Studies show pets can reduce stress and anxiety, and this drew many people to adopt during such an uncertain time.
2. Animal Rescue: Across both continents, rescuing animals in need — whether from shelters or through local rescues — is a common motivation. In the U.S., awareness campaigns push for adoption over buying, while in parts of Europe, such as Germany and the UK, ethical adoption is heavily encouraged.
3. Family Dynamics: For families with children, pets become part of the family dynamic, teaching kids responsibility and providing endless joy. During lockdowns, pets also filled a void for families looking to spend more time outdoors.
4. An Active Lifestyle: Pets, especially dogs, naturally fit into an active lifestyle. In the U.S. and across Europe, many people adopt dogs to encourage daily walks or runs, incorporating a pet into their outdoor routines.

But here’s the reality — adoption isn’t always forever.

As restrictions lifted and people returned to their daily routines, the honeymoon period of pet adoption often wore off, leading to a rise in pet abandonment. Sadly, the reasons for abandonment are all too familiar:

1. Behavioral Issues: Particularly in the U.S., many dogs are abandoned due to behavioral problems that owners aren't prepared to manage. Barking, aggression, and destruction are common reasons why dogs are returned to shelters.
2. Health or Age-Related Issues: In both the U.S. and Europe, pet health problems or aging animals are frequent causes of abandonment. Veterinary costs can become overwhelming, and families may not be emotionally or financially prepared to handle the care of an elderly or sick pet.
3. Post-Pandemic Life Changes: As life returned to normal, many adopters faced significant life changes. Job loss, relocations, or personal crises made keeping a pet more difficult. In the U.S. and Europe alike, these shifts contributed to higher numbers of animals being relinquished.
4. Lack of Time: As routines normalized, many realized they no longer had the time to care for their pets. The busy pace of life made it challenging to give pets the attention and care they need, resulting in increased surrenders to shelters.

Now, let’s examine the differences between the U.S. and Europe in pet abandonment.

• United States: Economic struggles play a more pronounced role in pet abandonment, especially in areas hit hard by financial crises. Additionally, the lack of universal pet healthcare in the U.S. makes veterinary costs a leading factor. The surge of "pandemic pet" purchases has also contributed to a spike in abandonments, as many impulse adoptions were not sustainable long-term.
• Europe: In some European countries with stricter animal welfare laws, like Germany, Switzerland, and the Netherlands, abandonment rates are lower due to cultural and legal emphasis on responsible ownership. However, in southern Europe, where economic challenges persist, abandonment remains an issue, especially in regions where awareness about responsible pet ownership is still growing.

At Pesati, we understand that the journey of pet ownership is filled with joy, challenges, and important responsibilities.

Whether you’re adopting for the first time or navigating the complexities of caring for a long-time companion, we’re here to support you with the right products, advice, and insights.

Stay tuned for more insights and stories!