New York City has become so unaffordable residents are giving up their pets - and shelters are packed to the gills
NYC animal shelters report rise in pet intake amid affordability crisis
- New York City animal shelters are becoming overwhelmed with pets, largely due to an ongoing affordability crisis impacting residents.
- The Animal Care Centers of New York City (ACC) reported having 1,000 animals in their system last week, including hundreds of cats, dogs, and other small animals.
- Pet owners are increasingly surrendering their animals as they struggle to afford the high costs of pet care, which can amount to thousands of dollars per year.
- The ACC has suspended intake for most animals, only accepting those from government agencies, public threats, or medical emergencies, as they are struggling to cope with the volume.
- The ASPCA has also observed an increase in animals, attributing it to factors such as higher 311 calls, criminal cases, and the typical summer 'kitten season'.