The Rising Costs of Pet Ownership: How Tariffs Are Driving Families to Shelters

Rising Costs of Pet Ownership Prompt Concerns Over Surrenders at Shelters

By Lauren Avenatti
May 1, 2025 | Iowa City, Iowa

Pet care costs rise fast. A ten‐year-old dog costs about $34,550 in its life. A sixteen‐year-old cat needs around $32,170. Forbes shows these figures. New tariffs from the Trump team add to the strain. Shelters worry that more pets may soon be given up.

Economic Strain on Pet Owners

Devon Strief works at the Iowa City Animal Care and Adoption Center. She sees pet care costs climb. "The number was actually really mind-blowing to me," she said. Tariffs push up the cost of food and supplies. Families already face job losses and unstable homes. They must pay for vet care. They must buy food. Extra costs bring extra stress. "They can't live without vet care, they can't live without food. And once we add more expenses, the problems grow for the community," Strief explained.

Shelters Prepare for Potential Increase in Surrenders

Shelters get ready for more pet surrenders. Darlene Olshansky, a volunteer and pet trainer, tells a clear story. Families adopt pets with hope. Later, they find care too expensive. "They'll get them and take them home, and then they see—wow, this is a lot. Soon, those dogs end up in shelters," she said. Local shelters already feel the pressure. "There are shelters and rescues everywhere that are just exploding with animals… It's not fair for the animals, and it's really hard for the employees," Strief warned.

The Importance of Research Before Adoption

The Iowa City Animal Care and Adoption Center urges careful thought. Prospective pet owners must study the long-term costs. Strief stresses that research is needed before adoption. The goal is to help both pets and families. The hope is that increased awareness will lead to smarter choices.

In summary, pet ownership is still full of love. Yet the costs are rising. Shelters now prepare for more surrenders as families face higher expenses and economic uncertainty.

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