Relinquishment of companion animals to shelters remains a persistent challenge for both animal welfare systems and the pets themselves. In a 2024 study published in Animals, researchers M. Kisley, E. J. Chung, and H. Levitt conducted a large-scale, retrospective content analysis of 2,836 owner relinquishment records from a U.S. open-admission shelter spanning six years (2018–2023).
The study identified behavioral issues (28%), housing/moving problems (18%), and owner inability to care (16%) as the most frequently cited reasons for surrendering dogs and cats. The most common behavioral issues included aggression (32%), social conflict (28%), and inappropriate soiling (13%).
Interestingly, despite widespread assumptions, the research found no statistically significant increase in relinquishments due to financial or housing instability during the peri-pandemic years. However, the category “Unable to Care” significantly increased in 2022 and 2023, suggesting long-term shifts in pet ownership capacity unrelated to acute economic crises.
Additional findings indicated species-specific patterns in relinquishment, as well as differences between initial surrenders and re-relinquishments. The study’s content analysis approach allowed for a structured and systematic classification of both general and behavioral-specific reasons, improving upon past research that often relied on unstructured or anecdotal data.
These insights may inform targeted interventions, including behavior support programs, housing policy adjustments, and public education to reduce surrender rates and improve the outcomes of pet ownership. The researchers emphasize that by understanding why people give up pets, shelters and communities can work toward more humane, preventive solutions.
Source: M. Kisley, E. J. Chung, H. Levitt. Animals, Volume 14, September 1, 2024.
