Navigating the Rising Costs of Pet Ownership: How Tariffs Are Impacting Shelters and Families

Rising Costs of Pet Ownership Increasing Pressure on Shelters

Iowa City, Iowa – May 1, 2025 – Pet ownership cost rises. Tariffs push costs up. Families feel the strain when they care for animals. A 10-year-old dog costs about $34,550 in a lifetime. A 16-year-old cat costs around $32,170. Potential pet owners must think of the long term.

Economic Strain from Tariffs

Devon Strief runs animal services at the Iowa City Animal Care and Adoption Center. She sees high pet costs and feels surprised. Tariffs from the Trump era lift pet supply prices. Tariffs make food and other needs more expensive. Families that try to care for pets soon face hard choices. Volunteer Darlene Olshansky says, "They get a pet, take it home, and then they see the cost. Soon, many dogs end up in shelters." Her words bind the ideas: cost grows and shelters fill.

Shelter Capacity is Challenged

Strief points out that job losses and housing problems hurt families. Parents need vet care and food for pets. They cannot skip these costs. Adding more expenses creates further troubles for the community. The shelter now serves many animals. Local rescues and shelters brim with pets. The facility finds few cages and kennels for these animals. This lack of space puts both pets and shelter staff at risk.

Advice for Potential Pet Owners

Strief and her team urge careful research before adoption. They stress that owners must learn the full cost and care needed. The Center works hard to teach and support the community. Tariffs raise the cost of living and spark the need for extra help. Shelters like the Iowa City Animal Care and Adoption Center prepare for more pet surrenders. Community care and responsible ownership keep animals safe.

The message stays clear: plan well if you choose pet adoption. Consider all costs now, so shelters and families do not suffer later.

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