It’s encouraging that more Irish people are choosing to adopt rather than shop but older dogs are being left behind
We are a nation of dog and cat lovers and while there is much work to be done when it comes to animal welfare in this country, it’s worth remembering that most people only want what’s best for all four-legged creatures.
Thankfully, this is evident in the fact that an increasing number of pets are being adopted and rescued from shelters around the country rather than being bought from misleading and criminally-run puppy farms.
A 2024 Pet Rescue and Adoption Report from Petmania highlights this growing commitment to animal welfare with 62% of pet owners having chosen to adopt rescues. The report reveals both the inspiring trends in pet adoption and the pressing challenges faced by Ireland’s rescue centres, calling for more public support to bolster these efforts and advocate for responsible pet ownership.
Drawing on two extensive surveys – one with 943 pet owners and another with 38 rescue centres nationwide – the report gives an insight into Ireland’s evolving approach to animal welfare and highlights areas for potential public and policy engagement.
Helping animals in need
The report finds a significantly high adoption rate, with 84% of surveyed pet owners bringing a rescue animal into their homes within the last five years, reflecting a growing societal awareness of the importance of adoption. Additionally, over a quarter of adopters have taken in more than one pet, showcasing an increased willingness to support multiple animals in need.
However, the report also reveals areas that require attention ie. 61% of rescue pets were not neutered and 59% were not microchipped prior to adoption – key practices Petmania advocates to reduce pet overpopulation and improve the chances of reuniting lost pets with their owners.
The senior years
Rehoming senior pets poses another challenge. More than half of rescue centres report difficulties in finding homes for animals over five years old, underscoring the need to encourage the adoption of older pets.
Approximately 75% of shelters cite health problems as obstacles to rehoming, while 70% find age to be a factor. Although it might present some challenges, they’re encouraging animal lovers to consider adopting pets with special needs and to support local shelters through donations, foster care, or volunteering.
“The findings show that Ireland’s compassion for rescue pets is real and growing, but there is more to be done,” explains Emily Miller, Marketing Manager at Petmania.
“We see that 94% of pet owners are willing to donate to support rescue efforts. This campaign aims to inspire people to get involved, whether by adopting, volunteering, or donating. Every pet deserves a loving home, and together, we can make that a reality.”
The report also includes voices from the rescue community. Caroline Mealy from OSPCA says: “Shelters often care for up to 100 animals at a time, and with the help of Petmania, we’re able to bring much-needed attention to our work. For each pet adopted, we make room for another animal in need. But with 60% of rescues housing an average of 20 to 30 animals, public support remains essential.”
The Petmania research was conducted through a survey of over 900 pet owners and 38 rescue centers across Ireland in June 2024. To view the full 2024 Pet Rescue and Adoption Report, click here.
