
Rising Costs of Pet Ownership Prompt Concerns Over Shelter Surrenders
Iowa City, Iowa—May 1, 2025 — Tariffs hit the economy. The cost of pet care rises. Animal shelters worry as this may force more pet surrenders. A Forbes report states that a ten-year-old dog costs about $34,550 and a sixteen-year-old cat around $32,170. These high numbers shock animal care providers.
The Impact of Tariffs on Pet Care
Local rescue leaders feel the strain. Devon Strief from the Iowa City Animal Care and Adoption Center calls these costs shocking. "The number was actually really mind-blowing to me," she said.
Tariffs, started during the Trump administration, push pet care prices even higher. Essentials cost more. Many people soon will struggle to pay for pet care. This new burden alarms community shelters.
Shelters Prepare for Pet Surrenders
Darlene Olshansky, a volunteer and pet trainer, sees the problem. New pet owners feel overwhelmed. "They get a pet and take it home, and then they realize—wow, this is going to be a lot. Soon those dogs end up in shelters," she said. Job losses and housing troubles add to the strain. Families find it hard to cover even basic pet care.
Strief explains that vet care and good food are vital for pet health. Extra costs only worsen the problem. "They need vet care, and they need food. When we add more expenses, the community faces bigger problems keeping their pets happy and healthy," she explained.
Urging Research and Responsible Adoption
The Iowa City Animal Care and Adoption Center now asks future pet owners to research costs before adopting. "There are shelters and rescues everywhere that are just exploding with animals," Strief noted.
Overcrowding in shelters grows as more pets are surrendered. Shelters lack enough cages or kennels to care for the animals long term. "It is unfair for the animals and too heavy a burden for the employees," Strief said.
As costs rise, potential pet owners should review both their current and future ability to care for a pet. The Iowa City community must support local shelters and promote thoughtful, responsible pet ownership.
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