Pet adoption issues continuing to worsen in Red River Valley

(Fargo, ND) -- Despite concerns over 'pandemic remorse' in pet adoptions being a key issue for numbers decreasing, it appears another factor may be in play as to why the number of dogs and cats at local animal shelters continue to climb.

Inflation is being blamed as a key issue related to adoption numbers dropping even below last year.

"Rising costs seem to be the biggest issue now," said Homeward Animal Shelter Operations Director Heather Clyde, who spoke with WDAY Radio's Bonnie and Friends Monday morning. "Unfortunately, things have only gotten worse since last year because of this."

Clyde says normally the shelter houses around 120 furry friends, but numbers have been consistently in the 200s for the better part of the last six months.

"I've even had to bring a few dogs into my office to make room," said Clyde. "200 animals is a lot, and we're running out of space and even fosters to try and alleviate some of those concerns."

Inflation has effected nearly all consumers when it comes to everything from simple grocery purchases, gas prices and now taking care of a pet. Recent reports have dog and cat food prices climbing steadily in 2022, with some brands charging nearly 20% more per bag than at the start of the year.

Clyde also defended the process it takes to adopt an animal from the shelter, saying though there are plenty of steps along the way, the goal is to make sure the home where the pet would be going will become a forever home.

"We think the process as it stands is good," said Clyde. "We just had a dog brought back over the weekend because the fit wasn't right. We want to avoid that happening as much as possible."

For more information on how you can either adopt or foster a pet, click here.