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CNN
2 days ago
- Business
- CNN
A heartbreaking economic indicator: More people are giving up their pets
In Melissa Knicely's nearly 19 years at a North Carolina animal shelter, she's learned to spot an unofficial and heart-wrenching sign that the economy may be taking a turn for the worse: When there's a surge in the number of people looking to give up their pets. That happened in the late 2000s, as the pain from the financial crisis spread; at other times when waves of layoffs hit the region; and, more recently, when inflation spiked. And in recent months, that activity, which is referred to as 'owner surrenders,' has picked up steam at Charlotte-Mecklenburg Animal Care & Control in North Carolina, where Knicely serves as the department spokesperson. So far this year, owner surrenders are running nearly 43% higher than this time last year, she said. 'There are times when the economy has taken a dip or we've had a lot of job layoffs; and 100%, you're going to see that significantly (in owner surrender cases),' she said. 'We definitely see (an increase) anytime anything in the economy changes.' The trend is not unique to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg region. In recent months, animal rescues and shelters across the country are reporting sharp increases in animals being surrendered, with several of those organizations telling CNN that financial hardship was at the root of those owners' decisions. Every aspect of owning a pet, from vet visits and food to beds, treats and toys, has grown expensive in recent years — with some tariff-sensitive goods expected to become even pricier in the months to come. Compounding those rising expenses for pet owners can be a deterioration in financial stability, including unwieldy debt burdens, an unexpected (human or animal) medical event, or a job loss. 'It's going to be financial for a few different reasons,' said Megan Larson, intake manager at Ruff Start Rescue, a foster-based organization in Princeton, Minnesota. One very common theme is people can't afford to stay where they live, she said. 'It just breaks us to see people cry that they have to give up their animal because they have to move somewhere that's more affordable, and that place that's more affordable for them doesn't allow animals,' she said. 'This is a very devastating decision that these people are forced to make. People don't want to do this.' Through July 24, Ruff Start has received 1,496 applications for owner surrenders and as many as 22 in a single day, according to data provided by Larson, who noted that the applications frequently are for multiple animals. During the same period last year, there were 1,292 applications. And while Ruff Start has a fairly sizable network of fosters (about 600 to 700 active in Minnesota), the organization doesn't have the capacity for every animal in need. 'Talking to other rescues here locally, we're all kind of panicking, because what we're seeing is a lack of large dog fosters,' she said, noting that big dogs do eat more and have more expensive vet visits and often are the target of a property's breed restrictions. 'Which is why we do see a lot of people that have to surrender their large dogs.' 'We just need more fosters for those, and we could take some of these incredible dogs.' Earlier this month, the Animal Care Centers of New York reached a 'breaking point' and suspended intake due to 'critical capacity issues.' 'This is not a decision we take lightly, but we cannot take any more owner surrenders,' the shelter announced July 18. 'With over 1,000 pets in our care, we are at a breaking point.' In Chicago, the city's animal care and control office posted a notice on Instagram in May sounding the alarm: A post shared by Chicago Animal Care & Control (@chianimalcareandcontrol) 'In just the first 20 days of May, we've averaged 56 animals coming into the shelter per day, a jump from April's 54 per day. That may not sound huge, but at this volume, every increase stretches our already limited resources to the brink. 💔 Many of the pets in this line are arriving as strays. But many are also being surrendered by their owners… people who likely love their pets, but may not know what else to do,' the post said. Animal shelters across the United States increasingly hitting capacity is a reflection of the 'perfect storm' that's been brewing in recent years, said Cesar Perea, associate vice president of rescue for the American Humane Society. As part of the constellation of a rising cost of living and financial constraints, an ongoing shortage of veterinarians has driven care costs higher, he said. Additionally, in the years following the pandemic-spurred pet ownership boom, rental properties grew stricter on allowing animals, and there was a noticeable uptick in behavioral issues because of a lack of socialization for pandemic puppies raised during a lockdown, he added. 'The economic hardships, that's a big contributor to the increase in shelters being full,' Perea told CNN. 'But I think there's really a perfect storm of things that are occurring.' And in Los Angeles County, California, there's a new headwind: Since early June, there have been more than two dozen animals relinquished because their owner was deported, said Christopher Valles, animal control manager at the County of Los Angeles' Department of Animal Care and Control. 'We do try to provide resources for anybody who's in that difficult position,' Valles said. The DACC encourages any pet owner, including those potentially impacted by immigration-related matters, to reach out to the agency for assistance. 'We do try to provide resources for anybody who's in a difficult position,' he said. 'We can provide (the pets) food, medical treatment and support … just so we can have retention in the home.' Local shelters, rescue organizations and veterinarians can serve as first points of contact and may offer resources such as food, reduced or free medical care, pet supplies, training services and temporary fostering. Local impounds and animal control agencies also can serve as resources. 'Sadly, a lot of people still think of them as the 'dog catchers' and assume every animal there will be euthanized,' said Megan Larson, of Minnesota's Ruff Start Rescue. 'Every single impound and animal control team we work with wants to see their animals in rescues like ours and eventually in homes.' Try to reach out to organizations before it becomes an emergency. There's no shame in asking for help. Never abandon your animal. In addition to contacting local organizations (including no-kill shelters and breed-specific rescues), consider reaching out to friends, family or a trusted acquaintance who might be able to provide a loving home — but screen carefully. If you'd like to help, consider becoming a foster, volunteer time at your local rescue or shelter, or donate funds to vetted and licensed organizations.
CNN
2 days ago
- Business
- CNN
A heartbreaking economic indicator: More people are giving up their pets
In Melissa Knicely's nearly 19 years at a North Carolina animal shelter, she's learned to spot an unofficial and heart-wrenching sign that the economy may be taking a turn for the worse: When there's a surge in the number of people looking to give up their pets. That happened in the late 2000s, as the pain from the financial crisis spread; at other times when waves of layoffs hit the region; and, more recently, when inflation spiked. And in recent months, that activity, which is referred to as 'owner surrenders,' has picked up steam at Charlotte-Mecklenburg Animal Care & Control in North Carolina, where Knicely serves as the department spokesperson. So far this year, owner surrenders are running nearly 43% higher than this time last year, she said. 'There are times when the economy has taken a dip or we've had a lot of job layoffs; and 100%, you're going to see that significantly (in owner surrender cases),' she said. 'We definitely see (an increase) anytime anything in the economy changes.' The trend is not unique to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg region. In recent months, animal rescues and shelters across the country are reporting sharp increases in animals being surrendered, with several of those organizations telling CNN that financial hardship was at the root of those owners' decisions. Every aspect of owning a pet, from vet visits and food to beds, treats and toys, has grown expensive in recent years — with some tariff-sensitive goods expected to become even pricier in the months to come. Compounding those rising expenses for pet owners can be a deterioration in financial stability, including unwieldy debt burdens, an unexpected (human or animal) medical event, or a job loss. 'It's going to be financial for a few different reasons,' said Megan Larson, intake manager at Ruff Start Rescue, a foster-based organization in Princeton, Minnesota. One very common theme is people can't afford to stay where they live, she said. 'It just breaks us to see people cry that they have to give up their animal because they have to move somewhere that's more affordable, and that place that's more affordable for them doesn't allow animals,' she said. 'This is a very devastating decision that these people are forced to make. People don't want to do this.' Through July 24, Ruff Start has received 1,496 applications for owner surrenders and as many as 22 in a single day, according to data provided by Larson, who noted that the applications frequently are for multiple animals. During the same period last year, there were 1,292 applications. And while Ruff Start has a fairly sizable network of fosters (about 600 to 700 active in Minnesota), the organization doesn't have the capacity for every animal in need. 'Talking to other rescues here locally, we're all kind of panicking, because what we're seeing is a lack of large dog fosters,' she said, noting that big dogs do eat more and have more expensive vet visits and often are the target of a property's breed restrictions. 'Which is why we do see a lot of people that have to surrender their large dogs.' 'We just need more fosters for those, and we could take some of these incredible dogs.' Earlier this month, the Animal Care Centers of New York reached a 'breaking point' and suspended intake due to 'critical capacity issues.' 'This is not a decision we take lightly, but we cannot take any more owner surrenders,' the shelter announced July 18. 'With over 1,000 pets in our care, we are at a breaking point.' In Chicago, the city's animal care and control office posted a notice on Instagram in May sounding the alarm: A post shared by Chicago Animal Care & Control (@chianimalcareandcontrol) 'In just the first 20 days of May, we've averaged 56 animals coming into the shelter per day, a jump from April's 54 per day. That may not sound huge, but at this volume, every increase stretches our already limited resources to the brink. 💔 Many of the pets in this line are arriving as strays. But many are also being surrendered by their owners… people who likely love their pets, but may not know what else to do,' the post said. Animal shelters across the United States increasingly hitting capacity is a reflection of the 'perfect storm' that's been brewing in recent years, said Cesar Perea, associate vice president of rescue for the American Humane Society. As part of the constellation of a rising cost of living and financial constraints, an ongoing shortage of veterinarians has driven care costs higher, he said. Additionally, in the years following the pandemic-spurred pet ownership boom, rental properties grew stricter on allowing animals, and there was a noticeable uptick in behavioral issues because of a lack of socialization for pandemic puppies raised during a lockdown, he added. 'The economic hardships, that's a big contributor to the increase in shelters being full,' Perea told CNN. 'But I think there's really a perfect storm of things that are occurring.' And in Los Angeles County, California, there's a new headwind: Since early June, there have been more than two dozen animals relinquished because their owner was deported, said Christopher Valles, animal control manager at the County of Los Angeles' Department of Animal Care and Control. 'We do try to provide resources for anybody who's in that difficult position,' Valles said. The DACC encourages any pet owner, including those potentially impacted by immigration-related matters, to reach out to the agency for assistance. 'We do try to provide resources for anybody who's in a difficult position,' he said. 'We can provide (the pets) food, medical treatment and support … just so we can have retention in the home.' Local shelters, rescue organizations and veterinarians can serve as first points of contact and may offer resources such as food, reduced or free medical care, pet supplies, training services and temporary fostering. Local impounds and animal control agencies also can serve as resources. 'Sadly, a lot of people still think of them as the 'dog catchers' and assume every animal there will be euthanized,' said Megan Larson, of Minnesota's Ruff Start Rescue. 'Every single impound and animal control team we work with wants to see their animals in rescues like ours and eventually in homes.' Try to reach out to organizations before it becomes an emergency. There's no shame in asking for help. Never abandon your animal. In addition to contacting local organizations (including no-kill shelters and breed-specific rescues), consider reaching out to friends, family or a trusted acquaintance who might be able to provide a loving home — but screen carefully. If you'd like to help, consider becoming a foster, volunteer time at your local rescue or shelter, or donate funds to vetted and licensed organizations.
Fox News
02-07-2025
- Fox News
California police make gruesome feline discovery in U-Haul van; owner faces animal cruelty charges
A woman faces 93 counts of animal cruelty after California police discovered more than 130 emaciated cats, 28 of which were dead, crammed inside a U-Haul van over the weekend. A deputy was dispatched Sunday to a Taco Bell parking lot in Santa Nella, California, to check on the welfare of several cats in a van. Upon arrival, he could see at least 20 distressed cats through the window of the vehicle, according to an Instagram post from the Merced County Sheriff's Office. Animal control officers were then called, and they discovered 106 emaciated cats and 28 dead cats inside the U-Haul van. There was no food or water inside the vehicle, the Merced County Sheriff's Office noted. The cats, which ranged in age from one week to 8 years old, were then taken to the Merced County Animal Shelter. The owner of the animals was identified as 69-year-old Jeannie Maxon of Long Beach who was arrested on 93 counts of animal cruelty. The investigation remains active, according to the Merced County Sheriff's Office. In a social media post, the Merced County Sheriff's Office reminded the public about the dangers of leaving animals in vehicles during the hot summer months. "On a warm day, temperatures inside a car can soar to extreme levels in just a few minutes, even with the windows open," the Merced County Sheriff's Office wrote on Instagram. "This can lead to heatstroke, dehydration, and even death of the animal left inside. Please ensure that when you're traveling with your pet, they're provided with a cool place to stay, offering plenty of shade, lots of water and food." The rescued animals will be available for adoption once they are medically cleared. In a similar case, a New York woman was arrested and charged earlier this year with animal cruelty and other offenses after 10 dead animals and other neglected pets were found inside her home. The Merced County Sheriff's Office did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital's request for comment.
01-07-2025
Woman allegedly leaves over 100 cats inside U-Haul, arrested: Police
A woman was arrested after leaving over 100 cats inside a U-Haul in a Southern California parking lot, according to the Merced County Sheriff's Office. Jeannie Maxon, 69, was arrested on Sunday after deputies were dispatched to a parking lot of a Taco Bell in Santa Nella, California, to "check on the welfare of several cats in a U-Haul van," the sheriff's office said in a statement on Monday. Once on the scene, the deputy observed "at least 20 cats in distress" through the window of the vehicle, officials said. Animal control then responded to the scene and located 106 "extremely emaciated cats, as well as 28 deceased cats" in the vehicle without food or water, officials said. Photos from the scene show the felines pressed against the front windshield of the van, with others found in cardboard boxes inside the vehicle. All of the cats -- which ranged from one week to 8 years old -- were seized and taken to the Merced County Animal Shelter, officials said. Once the cats are medically cleared by veterinary staff, they will be available for adoption, officials said. Maxon, who is from Long Beach, California, was charged with 93 counts of animal cruelty and booked into the Merced County Jail. The sheriff's office said the investigation remains active and they will provide updates regarding the adoption process of the cats. Officials reminded the public of the dangers of keeping an animal inside an unattended vehicle, especially on a summer day. "On a warm day, temperatures inside a car can soar to extreme levels in just a few minutes, even with the windows open. Please ensure that when you're traveling with your pet, they're provided with a cool place to stay, offering plenty of shade, lots of water and food," the sheriff's office said in a statement. It is unclear whether Maxon remains in custody as of Tuesday or whether she has an attorney that can speak on her behalf.
Newsweek
28-06-2025
- General
- Newsweek
Tears Over Face of Shelter Dog Still "Patiently Waiting" After 1,208 Days
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Hearts have broken for a black pit mix who has been waiting in a shelter for most of his life. Mars has spent 1,208 days—over three years—waiting at Webster Animal Shelter in Madison, Mississippi, for someone to take him home. "Mars originally came to us after being found running loose, with a severely swollen face covered in abscesses. Our animal control officer, Michael Greene, said Mars was rough around the edges when they first met—understandably scared and defensive—but he was eventually able to cut his collar off and bring him in safely," Krista Sciple from Webster Animal Shelter told Newsweek. "That was over 1,200 days ago. We estimate Mars is about 4–5 years old now, so he's spent most of his life in the shelter." In a post on Facebook, the shelter shared his story in a plea to help find him a loving home. "He's our longest resident, and honestly, we can't understand why." Mars the dog who is still waiting for a forever home. Mars the dog who is still waiting for a forever home. Webster Animal Shelter The shelter also believes that his looks may have played a part in him being overlooked for so long. "Sadly, we think the reason he's been overlooked so long is a mix of stigma and circumstance. Black dogs and pit bull-type dogs are both statistically less likely to be adopted. Dark colored dogs don't photograph as well and are perceived as less friendly or more intimidating, and pit bull breeds face a lot of misunderstanding and bias due to media portrayals and housing restrictions." Black dogs, especially in shelters, often face unique challenges when it comes to adoption—a phenomenon widely known as "Black Dog Syndrome." A 2002 study published in the Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science found that coat color significantly influencers adoption outcomes in dogs. Black dogs were less likely to be adopted compared to dogs with other coat colors, leaving them at higher risks of euthanasia. Read more Shelter dog adopted after 640 days—does "one last look back" before leaving Shelter dog adopted after 640 days—does "one last look back" before leaving Anecdotal evidence from shelters backs this up, with some even turning to extra measures to try and boost the chances of black shelter dogs. Like Maggie Epling, a shelter volunteer and photographer who took a series of portrait pictures of black dogs at a shelter to try and get them noticed. "Mars also isn't a perfect dog—he's not always the best fit with other dogs, especially dominant males, and he's not good with cats. So between his appearance, breed, and a few behavioral quirks, he keeps getting passed over," Sciple said. "But he is so much more than that. Mars is incredibly sweet and goofy, he'll lean into you and rub his whole body against you just to get some love. He's patient, especially when putting on a harness or even a little outfit. He's smart and has been doing well with some basic training." Despite being overlooked, Mars still greets every new visitor with hope. He's got some basic training under his belt, shows promise with house training, and is up to date on all vaccinations, including rabies. He's neutered, heartworm negative, and ready to go home for an adoption fee of $100. "He deserves a family. A couch. A soft bed," the shelter wrote. "Someone to see past the black coat and serious expression and recognize the incredible dog he is." More pictures of Mars, who has spent most of his life in the shelter. More pictures of Mars, who has spent most of his life in the shelter. Webster Animal Shelter Mars' story sparked a host of reactions from community members and animal lovers. "I've walked Mars a few times while getting some volunteer hours done. He's such a sweetheart," wrote Trinity Eades. "I cannot believe nobody has adopted this cute precious baby!" commented Missy Gammons Waldrup. Holly Porter Rose said: "Look at his smile!! Hope he finds a loving home soon!" Webster Animal Shelter remains open to the public seven days a week, and its staff is hopeful that someone will come through their doors soon to meet Mars. "He's lived in a shelter for nearly all his life, he just needs someone to help him learn what it means to be a dog again. His best friend here was a dog named Brownie, also a long-term pit bull resident, and she recently got adopted. We're really hoping Mars will be next. Everyone here loves him so much," Sciple said. Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@ with some details about your best friend, and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.
