Pet surrenders increase at Snohomish County animal shelter amid rising costs

Pet surrenders at the PAWS Animal Shelter in Lynnwood, Washington, have surged by 37% as rising costs burden pet owners. Jennifer Convy, the shelter's senior director, notes that most owners are devastated when they must surrender their pets. A recent report from Rover reveals that dog owners are paying up to 7% more, while cat owners face increases of up to 10% compared to the previous year. Access to veterinary care, food, and pet-friendly housing complicates the situation for many families. The shelter works to connect owners with local resources, including food pantries and affordable vet clinics.

Despite these efforts, the emotional toll on owners remains significant. This trend reflects a growing crisis in animal welfare as financial strains increase. Local animal shelters face mounting challenges as they strive to support both pets and their owners.