Shelters Facing Challenges
Slowed Adoptions, Longer Stays, and Staffing Shortages
By MARY SHELTER
Pet adoptions have slowed down, animals are staying in shelters longer, and there is a shortage of staff to care for them. These are the challenges facing animal shelters across the country, according to a recent report by the Association of Shelter Veterinarians. The report found that the average length of stay for a dog in a shelter has increased from 14 days in 2019 to 21 days in 2023. For cats, the average length of stay has increased from 10 days in 2019 to 16 days in 2023.
The slowdown in adoptions is due to a number of factors, including the economic downturn, the rising cost of pet care, and the increased availability of pets from private sources. The longer stays are due to the fact that shelters are overcrowded and there are not enough staff to care for the animals. The staff shortages are due to a number of factors, including low pay, high turnover, and the difficulty of finding qualified staff in a competitive job market.
The consequences of these challenges are serious. Animals are languishing in shelters for weeks, months, and sometimes even years. They are at risk of developing health problems, behavioral problems, and even death. The staff shortages are putting a strain on the shelters, and the animals are paying the price.
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