Increased spending on pets is leading to bad outcomes
The pandemic led to a big influx in pet adoptions. That’s a good thing, to be sure, as there are many animals that need a home. But it seems the other shoe is dropping, and that shelters are once again brimming with homeless pets. That’s largely because people can’t afford their animals.
Inflation in recent years has led to a rise in costs for just about everything, including pets. Pet food is more expensive, as is veterinary care (though we do our best to remain affordable!). For many people who are struggling to make ends meet, that means that they need to find a way to cut costs, and unfortunately, their pets may be what ends up needing to go.
According to recent reporting from NBC News, shelter workers are saying that the top reason that people are surrendering their pets is that they simply can’t afford to keep them.
Pet costs soar
Those people aren’t making it up, either. Recent data from the Bank of America Institute finds that a whopping 94 million American households have at least one pet, and more than 60 million have a dog. But the costs of pet services have been increasing 4% annually in recent years, and people are spending less at pet stores at the same time.
Additionally, data from the American Pet Products Association (APPA), cited in a recent story from Sherwood News, breaks down the specifics of the costs. Overall, spending is up 60% as of 2025 compared to the pre-pandemic period, and most of it is on pet food and treats, vet care and products, and other supplies.
So, yeah, increasing costs related to pet ownership are leading to fewer purchases, which makes sense. And when people simply can’t afford their pet anymore, they’re choosing to give them up.
Interestingly, average spending at pet stores and veterinary clinics is the highest in Western cities—Seattle was the highest, and San Diego was fourth, with pet owners in San Diego spending more than 15% more than the national average.
This is all to say that we’re in a tight spot. Pet ownership is rewarding, but it isn’t cheap, and that’s leading to some disheartening outcomes at the current time.
What to do if you can’t afford to keep your pet
If you do find yourself in a tight financial spot, and are worried that you may not be able to afford to keep your pet, there are some things you can do before surrendering your pet at a shelter or trying to rehome it.
There are financial assistance organizations and programs out there for pet owners, for instance, which may help you cover vet bills or buy food and treats. The Independent Movement for Pet Owners is one, for instance, and RedRover Relief is another.
You can also go to food banks or pantries to see if they have pet food in stock—in some areas, there may be pet-specific food pantries.
Of course, if you do feel like you’re out of options, you can look at finding a new home for your pet. It may be worthwhile asking friends or family members if they can temporarily foster your pet, to see if you can get on a more stable footing. If not, though, you can look at rescues or sanctuaries, or safely surrender at a shelter.
If you have further questions, our team is happy to try and help, too. Don’t be afraid to ask.
Contact us to make an appointment today!
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