What’s Behind the Decline in Adoption Rates at Devon Animal Rescue?

Gables Cats and Dogs Home in Plymouth is experiencing a significant decline in dog adoptions, attributed to behavioural issues in many of the animals. The centre's general manager, Claire Sparkes, has highlighted that many dogs were acquired during the Covid-19 lockdown and have not received adequate socialisation or training, making them less appealing to potential adopters.

Last updated: 25 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The current situation at Gables Cats and Dogs Home reflects a broader trend in animal rescue centres across the UK, where the adoption of dogs has seen a worrying decline. Many dogs in the centre's care are described as "difficult" due to behavioural issues stemming from a lack of training and socialisation. These challenges are making it hard for the centre to place these animals into suitable forever homes.

Key takeaways

• Adoption rates for dogs have decreased significantly at Gables Cats and Dogs Home.
• Many dogs are struggling with behavioural issues due to inadequate training during the pandemic.
• Potential adopters are encouraged to consider the personality of dogs rather than just their appearance.

Timeline: how we got here

The decline in dog adoptions at Gables Cats and Dogs Home can be traced back to several key events:

• March 2020: The Covid-19 lockdown begins, leading to increased pet adoptions.
• 2021-2022: Many dogs adopted during the pandemic show signs of behavioural issues due to lack of training.
• October 2023: Gables Cats and Dogs Home reports a significant drop in adoptions, with 60 fewer cats and 30 fewer dogs rehomed than usual.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Recent statements from Claire Sparkes indicate an urgent need for potential adopters to focus on the personality and behavioural needs of dogs rather than superficial traits. The centre has recently taken in retired greyhounds, which are more suitable for first-time dog owners.

What was already established

Historically, Gables Cats and Dogs Home has faced challenges in rehoming animals, particularly black cats and kittens. This trend has now extended to include black and white dogs, further complicating the adoption process.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The decline in dog adoptions has significant implications for households considering pet ownership. Families may find it increasingly difficult to adopt dogs that meet their needs, particularly if they are looking for animals that are well-socialised and trained. This situation could lead to an increase in demand for professional dog training services.

Businesses and jobs

For businesses involved in pet care, including training services and veterinary practices, the increase in behavioural issues among rescue dogs may lead to a rise in demand for specialised training and behavioural consultations. However, the financial strain on households may limit their ability to invest in these services.

Policy and regulation

As adoption rates decline, there may be a call for greater awareness and education on responsible pet ownership and training. Animal welfare organisations may work towards creating policies that encourage adoption while ensuring that potential adopters are fully informed about the needs of the animals.

Numbers that matter

• 60: The number of fewer cats rehomed by Gables Cats and Dogs Home over the past two years.
• 30: The decrease in dog adoptions reported by the rescue centre during the same timeframe.
• 40%: Estimated increase in adoption rates during the Covid-19 pandemic, which has since declined.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Socialisation: The process of exposing a dog to various environments, people, and other animals to develop a well-adjusted behaviour.
• Separation anxiety: A condition where a dog experiences distress when separated from its owner or primary caretaker.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Potential adopters are encouraged to visit rescue centres and engage in discussions about the dogs' behaviours and needs. This period is crucial for understanding the specific requirements of animals available for adoption.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As the situation evolves, animal rescue centres may implement more training and socialisation programmes for dogs, increasing their adoptability. Awareness campaigns may also be launched to educate potential adopters on the needs of rescue animals.

Signals to watch

• Increased community engagement events at local rescue centres.
• Changes in adoption policies or requirements from animal welfare organisations.
• Upcoming training programmes for dogs in rescue centres.

Practical guidance

Do

• Research the specific needs of different dog breeds before adopting.
• Consider fostering a dog to assess compatibility before committing to adoption.

Don’t

• Adopt a dog based solely on its appearance.
• Overlook the importance of training and socialisation for dogs with behavioural issues.

Checklist

• Evaluate your household's lifestyle and capacity for dog ownership.
• Visit local rescue centres to meet potential pets.
• Prepare for the financial responsibilities of pet ownership, including veterinary care.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

The situation surrounding dog adoptions is continually evolving, with many factors influencing the rates. The behavioural issues faced by many rescue dogs can vary widely, and potential adopters should be prepared for the possibility of encountering unexpected challenges. Additionally, financial constraints may limit the ability of some families to adopt or care for a pet, which could exacerbate the situation.

Bottom line

As adoption rates decline at Gables Cats and Dogs Home and across the UK, it is essential for potential adopters to prioritise understanding the behavioural needs of rescue dogs. By focusing on matching the right dog with the right family, the chances of successful adoptions can increase, benefiting both the animals and their new owners.

FAQs

Why are fewer dogs being adopted from rescue centres?

Fewer dogs are being adopted due to behavioural issues stemming from a lack of socialisation and training during the pandemic, leading to challenges in matching dogs with suitable families.

What should I consider before adopting a rescue dog?

Potential adopters should consider the dog's personality, behavioural needs, and compatibility with their household environment before making a decision.

How can I help improve dog adoption rates?

Improving adoption rates can involve raising awareness about the needs of rescue dogs, volunteering at local shelters, or fostering animals to help them become more adoptable.