Financial hardships causing more Arizona families to surrender pets

PHOENIX (AZFamily)— The Arizona Humane Society is reporting high pet surrender rates, currently averaging 400 to 500 applications per month.

The organization says many families blame housing, utilities, and even grocery bills for making them face tough financial decisions with their pets.

Kelsey Dickerson, spokesperson for the Humane Society, said many pet owners choose to pay vet bills or their summer A/C bills.

“We see all walks of life who are having to make that really difficult decision to surrender their pet. It is usually a last resort for a lot of families, but unfortunately, when it comes between having to pay rent that month or having to take your pet to an emergency vet, a lot of families just can’t afford it,” Dickerson said.

With many families making heartbreaking decisions, economist Rick Merritt said there are a couple of reasons why people may make these tough financial decisions.

Despite Phoenix’s cost of living and inflation rates being below the national average, Merritt believes housing costs and high interest rates are impacting many families.

“If you’re in the market to buy a home and are trying to put a down payment together, it’s really been very difficult, and I think that’s a big overhang of what people are thinking about,” Merritt said. “Interest rates are still 6.5%, 7%, which is something we haven’t seen in a while, and prices have continued to rise.”

In addition to the high pet surrender numbers, Dickerson said shelters are at capacity, creating a backlog for surrender intake. She wants pet owners to know there are resources available for them.

In addition to the high pet surrender numbers, Dickerson said shelters are at capacity, creating a backlog for surrender intake. She

“We really are having to make those decisions on what pets can come through our doors when we don’t have the kennel space,” Dickerson said. “Our amazing pet resource center has incredible things for pet owners out there. We can help you find low-cost veterinary care or sometimes even free. We can help you find pet-friendly housing.”

If you are struggling to cover the cost of pet food, the Arizona Humane Society can also set you up with a nearby pet food pantry.

The Humane Society offers information on resources available to keep your pets.

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