Pet adoptions from U.S. shelters and rescues have decreased this year, according to data from the national database Shelter Animals Count. A midyear analysis revealed that 82,000 fewer dogs and cats were adopted in 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, marking a 4% decline.
While there was a nearly 5% reduction in animals entering shelters and rescues in 2024 compared to 2023, this decrease did little to alleviate overcrowding. Despite fewer intakes, animals are experiencing longer stays in shelters, leading to rising populations. In the first half of 2024, 322,000 more animals entered the system than were adopted or otherwise exited.
Solutions and Statistics
Shelter Animals Count highlights supported self-rehoming as a potential solution to keep pets out of shelters. This method allows pet owners to directly find new homes for their pets without involving animal shelters. From January to June 2024, around 20% of potential owner surrenders resulted in adoptions through this process, and nearly 10% of pet owners decided to keep their pets.
The report provides a breakdown of the types of dogs in shelters. About 48% are adults, 25% are young adults, 17% are puppies, and 10% are seniors. In terms of size, nearly half are medium-sized (26 to 60 pounds), 30% are large (61 to 100 pounds), 17% are small (under 25 pounds), and 2% are extra-large (over 101 pounds).
Regarding intake reasons, 56% of cats and dogs brought into shelters in 2024 were strays, while 32% were surrendered by their owners.
Despite some positive trends, the increase in shelter populations indicates ongoing challenges in the pet adoption landscape in the U.S.
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