Pet abandonment has become an increasingly pressing issue in the Niagara region. Every month, heart-wrenching stories emerge of animals left to fend for themselves—cats left in fields, abandoned dogs tied up in remote areas, and even small pets like rabbits and guinea pigs released in public parks. Many people assume these animals will somehow find safety, often believing organizations like the Humane Society of Greater Niagara (HSGN) will step in to help. Unfortunately, the reality is far bleaker. Abandoned animals face immense challenges, including hunger, illness, injury, and in many cases, death. They are left confused, frightened, and vulnerable, with little hope of survival without intervention. This crisis goes beyond the animals; it highlights deeper social and economic issues, such as rising living costs and a lack of education about the responsibilities of pet ownership. In this blog, we’ll explore the root causes of pet abandonment, including the question, “Why do people abandon their pets?” and discuss what actions the community can take to address this serious problem.
The pet abandonment crisis in Niagara is escalating at an alarming pace. Over the past three years, the Humane Society of Greater Niagara (HSGN) has witnessed a dramatic surge in the number of animals surrendered or abandoned. In 2022, 757 animals were surrendered, and 1,078 were found as strays or abandoned. By 2023, these numbers rose significantly to 900 surrenders and 1,406 abandoned animals—a staggering increase of over 50%. The trend continues in 2024, with 1,120 surrenders and 1,799 abandoned animals reported so far. Behind these numbers are countless heartbreaking stories of pets left to face harsh conditions alone. Many are discovered in awful conditions—starving, injured, or suffering from preventable illnesses. Puppies and kittens, especially vulnerable to predators and the elements, are often among the abandoned, highlighting the tragic toll of this crisis. A primary driver of this growing issue is economic hardship. With the rising cost of living, many families struggle to provide for their pets. Veterinary care, in particular, can be expensive, leaving pet owners feeling they have no choice but to surrender or abandon their animals. This financial strain underscores the urgent need for community support and accessible resources to address the root causes of pet abandonment.
The consequences of pet abandonment are profound and far-reaching, affecting not only the animals but also the communities around them. For the abandoned pets, the immediate dangers are severe. Hunger, harsh weather, attacks from predators, and the risk of accidents make survival an uphill battle. Many of these animals endure extreme physical pain and emotional trauma, and sadly, some don’t survive long enough to be rescued. The ripple effects of abandonment extend beyond the animals themselves. Shelters like HSGN face immense pressure, struggling to provide care for the increasing number of strays. With limited resources and space, it becomes challenging to give every animal the attention they need, pushing the shelter's capacity to its limits. This strain impacts the quality of care and limits the ability to rescue more animals in need. There are also legal and ethical implications tied to pet abandonment. In Niagara, abandoning a pet is not only an act of cruelty but also a violation of the law, with fines reaching as high as $50,000. Despite these penalties, enforcement is difficult, and the problem persists.
One of the questions we’re frequently asked is, “Can I bring in a pet that I can no longer care for to HSGN?” The answer is yes. In this helpful video, our Senior Animal Care Technician, Brianna, walks you through the steps involved in surrendering a pet to HSGN.
Watch the video here: https://www.hsgn.ca/faq “Can I bring in a pet that I no longer can care for to the HSGN?”
The reasons behind pet abandonment are varied, but several common themes emerge. Economic hardship is one of the most significant factors. The cost of feeding, housing, and providing medical care for a pet can quickly become overwhelming, particularly during times of financial instability. This has been compounded by the rise of "Pandemic Pets." During COVID-19 lockdowns, many people adopted animals to cope with isolation. While these pets initially brought joy and companionship, the realities of long-term pet ownership—especially as people returned to work or faced financial difficulties—proved too much for some. Behavioural issues are another frequent cause of abandonment. Pets that exhibit excessive barking, aggression, or destructive behaviour are often surrendered, especially when owners lack the knowledge or resources to address these challenges. In many cases, these issues could be resolved with proper training or professional guidance, but without access to such resources, frustration can lead to abandonment. A lack of education about the responsibilities of pet ownership is also a significant factor. Some individuals underestimate the time, patience, and money required to care for a pet. This lack of preparation often leads to frustration when the realities of ownership set in. Compounding this issue is the fact that many pet owners are unaware of the support systems available to them, such as low-cost veterinary services or rehoming programs. As a result, they may view abandonment as their only option, unaware of the harm it causes or the alternatives that exist.
The Humane Society of Greater Niagara (HSGN) is at the forefront of tackling pet abandonment, providing a lifeline for animals in need while supporting pet owners through education and resources. With a multifaceted approach, HSGN is making a meaningful impact on the lives of pets and the people who love them.
Each year, HSGN rescues thousands of animals, many arriving in dire conditions. These animals often require urgent medical attention, rehabilitation, and emotional support. The shelter’s dedicated team works tirelessly to nurse these animals back to health, giving them a second chance at life. Once they’re ready, HSGN matches them with loving families, ensuring they have a brighter future.
HSGN’s low-cost veterinary clinic is one of its most transformative programs, providing affordable services like spaying, neutering, vaccinations, and routine check-ups. By making veterinary care more accessible, this initiative helps reduce the number of unwanted litters and ensures pets receive essential medical attention. It’s a game-changer for families facing financial challenges, allowing them to provide the care their pets need without sacrificing other necessities.
One of the leading causes of pet abandonment is behavioural challenges, which can strain the relationship between pets and their owners. To combat this, HSGN offers free training sessions for all dogs adopted through the shelter. These sessions address common issues like separation anxiety, excessive barking, and socialization, helping to foster a stronger bond between pets and their new families. By equipping owners with the tools they need, these programs set everyone up for success.
Financial difficulties should never force someone to choose between feeding their family or their pet. To address this, HSGN operates a pet food bank that provides essential supplies to families in need. This program ensures that pets don’t go hungry during tough times and helps prevent abandonment caused by financial hardship. By keeping pets and their families together, the food bank brings relief and hope to those who need it most.
While the Humane Society of Greater Niagara (HSGN) works tirelessly to reduce the effects of pet abandonment, solving this issue requires the collective effort of the entire community. Residents across the Niagara Region can make a meaningful impact by supporting shelters like HSGN, promoting responsible pet ownership, and advocating for systemic changes that address the root causes of abandonment.
Preventing pet abandonment begins with ensuring that prospective pet owners are fully prepared for the long-term commitment of caring for an animal. Owning a pet often means a commitment lasting 10 to 20 years, depending on the species. It’s crucial to ask yourself some tough questions before making this life-changing decision.
Every pet has unique needs, and finding the right match is essential. For example, a high-energy dog may be perfect for an active family but unsuitable for someone with a more sedentary lifestyle. Similarly, cats, small animals, or fish might be better options for those living in apartments or smaller spaces. Taking time to research different breeds, temperaments, and care requirements helps ensure the pet you choose fits seamlessly into your life.
Bringing a pet into your life also requires a realistic look at your finances. Pets come with ongoing costs, including food, veterinary care, grooming, and training. Soon-to-be pet parents should create a budget to ensure they can meet these needs, not just in the present but throughout the pet’s life. Planning ahead can help avoid financial strain and prevent situations where owners feel forced to surrender their pets.
Training might seem overwhelming, but it’s one of the most valuable investments you can make in your pet’s future. Behavioural issues are a common reason for pet abandonment, but many of these problems can be avoided with early training and socialization. Teaching basic obedience and ensuring your pet is comfortable around other animals and people can help create a happy and well-adjusted companion while strengthening the bond between you and your pet.
Pet ownership doesn’t have to be a solo journey. Building a network of friends, family, and pet care professionals can provide critical support during trying times. Whether it’s help with pet sitting, advice from a vet, or guidance from a trainer, having a reliable support system ensures you’re never alone in caring for your pet.
Addressing pet abandonment requires more than just community efforts—it calls for systemic changes that tackle the issue at its core. One key area is making veterinary care more accessible and affordable. When veterinary services are within reach, families are less likely to surrender or abandon their pets due to unmanageable costs. Governments and private organizations can work together to fund low-cost clinics, ensuring that even those facing financial difficulties can provide proper care for their animals. Stricter penalties for pet abandonment and neglect, paired with stronger enforcement, can also act as powerful deterrents. When pet owners are held accountable, it reinforces the seriousness of their responsibilities and helps protect animals from harm. Public awareness campaigns also play a vital role in combating pet abandonment. Educational initiatives can help potential and current pet owners understand the challenges of caring for a pet, as well as the resources available to support them. By combining these systemic changes with community efforts, we can create a safer, more compassionate environment for pets and their owners.
Pet abandonment is a serious issue, but it’s one we can solve together. Abandoned dogs, along with other animals, face immense challenges, and by addressing the root causes, supporting pet owners in need, and promoting a culture of care and responsibility, we can help ensure that every animals finds a safe and loving home. At HSGN, we are committed to this mission, but we can’t achieve it alone. It requires the collective effort of individuals, businesses, and policymakers working hand in hand to prevent pets from being left behind. You can make a difference by donating to HSGN, volunteering your time, or adopting a pet in need. Together, we have the power to create a brighter future for all animals.