Rising Costs of Pet Ownership Due to Tariffs Impact Shelters
IOWA CITY, Iowa - May 1, 2025 — In recent months, costs for pets have risen fast. Tariffs drive prices up. Animal shelters worry as more people give up their pets. Many potential pet owners now see pet care as a heavier long-term cost.
Forbes showed that caring for a pet costs a lot. A 10-year-old dog may cost near $34,550. A 16-year-old cat may reach about $32,170. Devon Strief, animal services coordinator at the Iowa City Animal Care and Adoption Center, finds these numbers shocking. She says the high costs ignore many families’ economic troubles.
Tariffs, job losses, and housing issues add to the strain on pet owners. Darlene Olshansky, a volunteer and pet trainer, sees a worrying trend. Families get a pet, then learn that the cost is high. “They get them home and then see the full price,” she says. “Soon these pets end up in shelters.”
Strief explains that rising prices limit a family’s ability to give pets the basics like vet care and food. “Pets need a vet and food. More costs bring more problems for our community,” she says. Families must think hard about pet ownership costs.
With more pets coming to shelters, Strief advises prospective pet adopters to research all costs before they commit. The Iowa City Animal Care and Adoption Center now sees many more surrenders. “Shelters and rescues are full of animals,” Strief explains. “They lack enough cages and kennels to keep pets safe. It is not fair to the animals, and it is hard on the staff.”
Local communities now see pet care as a serious issue. Shelters ask for better planning and awareness from future pet owners. The hope is that more education and careful budget planning will let families enjoy pets while keeping them safe and healthy.
contact mindful ai media creations here: mindfulaimedia@gmail.com
No comments:
Post a Comment