Contrary to Alarming Headlines Pandemic Pets are Still in Their New Homes

Despite many reports of rampant returns of pets adopted during the pandemic, The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals reported the majority of adopters, 87%, are not considering rehoming in the near future. 

According to the ASPCA, almost one in five households acquired a cat or dog since the beginning of COVID-19—translating into about 23 million American households. The vast majority, 90% for dogs and 85% for cats, are still with their new human parents. That contradicts many alarming headlines that raised concern of overrun shelters and people giving up their new pets. 

“This incredibly stressful period motivated many people to foster and adopt animals, as well as further cherish the pets already in their lives, and our recent research shows no significant risk of animals being rehomed by their owners now or in the near future as a result of the lifting of pandemic-related restrictions,” said Matt Bershadker, ASPCA president and chief operating officer. “Pets are still providing their families with joy and comfort, regardless of changes in circumstances, and loving owners continue to recognize and appreciate the essential role pets play in their lives.”

Dr. Christine Newman of Harlingen Veterinarian Clinic in Belle Mead, N.J. confirmed she is not witnessing people changing their minds. “We continue to see a great deal of new patients and parents who are driven to do the right thing for their new pets from the right diet to staying up on vet visits—they are committed to doing the best for their new pets who helped them through dark times.”

Even as Americans return to offices and social activities, they are finding they have enough time to spend with their new furry friends. Instead, they are integrating pets into their lifestyles—often encouraging healthy habits like more walks. 

Whether driven by the pandemic or not, Millennials in particular are spurring growth in pet ownership. Millennials are known to treat their pets more like humans—perhaps training for parenthood. According to poll by Emma Bedford, Millennials represent the highest percentage of pet ownership in the United States (32%). Baby Boomers follow them in second place (27%), with Generation Z coming in third accounting (24%).

These trends equal fertile opportunity for retailers to continue to stock up and even expand pet food and treat options as pet ownership continues to rise. 

To learn more about how people are treating their pets more like humans read here.