Facing Rising Costs: How Tariffs are Impacting Pet Ownership and Filling Shelters

Rising Costs of Pet Ownership and Shelters Preparing for Increased Surrenders

Economic Pressures on Pet Owners

Pet ownership costs climb. Families face tight budgets. Many must surrender pets at shelters. A 10-year-old dog costs about $34,550 over its life. A 16-year-old cat costs near $32,170. Forbes shares these numbers. Animal care advocates worry because rising costs make owning pets hard. Devon Strief, the Iowa City Animal Care and Adoption Center’s coordinator, says the number is mind‐blowing. Her words show deep concern for pet owners.

Tariffs and Their Impact

Tariffs add to the strain. The Trump administration sets tariffs now. They push up import prices, including pet supplies. Higher prices force families to check their budgets. Darlene Olshansky, a pet trainer and volunteer, explains a common pattern. Owners bring pets home excitedly. Soon, high costs shock them. That shock leads many pets to local shelters.

Additional Economic Strains

Strief explains more pressures. Tariffs, job losses, and housing issues harm family budgets. Families struggle to pay for vet visits and food. They need both to keep pets healthy. Extra expenses cause problems for everyone. Shelters, like Iowa City Animal Care and Adoption Center, face extra challenges. Many area shelters overflow with animals. They lack enough cages and kennels. This shortage hurts the animals and strains workers.

Advice for Potential Pet Owners

Strief urges potential owners to plan well. Research long-term pet costs before adopting. Knowing the financial needs stops forced surrenders. With economic stress growing, shelters fear a surge in abandoned pets. Responsible pet care helps both animals and communities. Careful planning gives families a better chance to meet their pet’s needs.

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