Abandoned pets surged 78% in 2023, says Utah shelter
MURRAY, Utah (ABC4) — Shelters throughout Utah have reportedly seen a staggering surge of abandoned pets being left behind in the last year. As shelters battle with capacity, officials are calling for community action and support to save these animals.
The Humane Society of Utah reported the shelter saw a 78% increase in abandoned animals, which they say echoes similar trends throughout the state, including the Weber County Animal Services.
“Animal Control has encountered numerous dogs tied to poles in public places with notes pleading for a home,” said Weber County Animal Services Animal Care and Community Outreach Coordinator Lisa Weiss. “Recently, we found four 10-week-old puppies left in a wire crate at our doorstep in freezing temperatures without any blankets or coats.”
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Thankfully, all four of those puppies were taken in by the Humane Society and have since been adopted but officials say it’s an issue that needs to be addressed.
“We want to remind Utah residents that abandoning animals is illegal,” said Human Society of Utah Director of Marketing Guinnevere Shuster. “However, we recognize the tough times people are facing and aim to provide alternatives for people considering abandoning their pets.”
Shuster said housing issues appear to be the leading cause for pet owners to abandon their pets in 2023. If faced with a situation where pet owners are forced to leave their pets, Shuster recommends they explore different rehoming options.
“Facebook hosts local groups such as Utah Animal Rescue & Rehoming and Utah Pets for Rehoming or Rescue,” Shuster said in a press release. “People can post information and photos about their pets to potential adopters in these groups.”
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The Humane Society of Utah also manages a free private pet rehoming service website, which Shuster said attracts hundreds of visitors daily. The Weber County Animal Shelter also provides free resources for people to take advantage of when looking to rehome their pets.
For those who are facing a temporary crisis, Ruff Haven Crisis Sheltering in Salt Lake City offers short-term pet fostering for up to 90 days, allowing owners to reunite with their pets after their crisis has passed. Shuster said the Humane Society of Utah also helps pet owners who are threatened with eviction due to their pets.
“HSU can provide letters to landlords indicating a scheduled surrender date, hoping to allow pets to remain with their owners until then,” said Shuster.
Individuals who need help with food or supplies can access free supplies by contacting Salt Lake County Animal Services Pet Crew Pet Pantry, the Ruff Haven Pet Pantry or Street Dawg Crew of Utah.
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