cost-of-living crisis sees monumental rise in dog abandonment: what needs to give?

As predicted by IFAW last year, abandonment of dogs is on the up. With concerns that the cost of goods and services are rising by the day, animal shelters are bracing for a long winter with Dogs Trust reporting that in recent months over two thirds of dog owners in the UK feel worried about how they will care for their dog in the next year. 

the same old story

As a dog owner and animal welfare advocate myself, I sensed the tragic inevitability to this. The covid period brought the biggest shift in working practices in the UK since the industrial revolution. Shelters were in a unique position, where the demand outstripped supply of dogs, and people had more time and inclination to take on a pet than ever before. The dark side of this saw the prices of dogs soaring, creating a chasm for less reputable breeders, scammers and puppy smugglers to fill, and pet thefts increased. Supply itself is also a concerning denotation - dogs are far too often seen as consumer commodities, and long-term welfare needs not considered.

So, with this huge increase in pet ownership, followed by a significant return to offices, the cost-of-living crisis comes at a complex time. Owning a single dog can cost up to £30,000 over their lifetime, a significant responsibility. Care, vet bills, food and insurance are on minds more than ever, and in some cases, people are needing to make difficult decisions about whether they can keep their dogs. From charities to politicians, there are serious concerns about the knock-on-impact of the cost-of-living crisis and rising number of abandoned dogs. Shelters are already reporting unprecedented inquiries to give dogs up, and some have launched urgent appeals for dog fosterers.

what is the answer to the cost-of-living crisis and the rise in dog abandonment?

Dogs are our best friends, our family, deeply emotionally intuitive, and in the same way we wish to thrive and not simply survive during challenging times, IFAW is encouraging pet owners to consider steps to mitigate rising costs and support a harmonious balance. For example, keeping up to date with dog vaccinations and treatments can avoid costly vet bills down the line. Insurance can also be a life saver in the event of a pet becoming ill or involved in an accident.

Dogs in the UK are legally required to be microchipped, as it is one of the best ways to reunite a dog with their owner if lost or stolen. Following advice around reducing the risk of dog theft is also critical.

Finally, it’s the small things that add up, many charities have issued advice on how and where pet owners can reduce costs. This could include buying good quality dog food in bulk and shopping around for offers, relying on personal networks for dog walks, and even upskilling in dog grooming (providing best practice is deployed, and your dog is comfortable!).

the bottom line for our nation of dog lovers

There is no doubt that shelters and animal charities will be bracing for major challenges. IFAW is encouraging pet owners, new and existing, to consider how they can ride out the cost-of-living curve ball whilst supporting their pet, and to seek help if needed. Politicians should recognise this alarming trend and factor it into urgent discussions around rising costs, focusing on how to support our nation of dog lovers.