COVID-19 AND DOG OWNERSHIP

A PANDEMIC LEGACY OF LOVE AND LOSS

The COVID-19 pandemic reshaped nearly every aspect of life, including how we relate to our pets. During lockdowns, dogs brought joy, companionship, and structure to millions of households. However, the post-pandemic reality has revealed a darker side to the surge in dog ownership that occurred during the pandemic. Shelters are now overflowing, and abandoned dogs are flooding the streets.

THE PANDEMIC PET BOOM

As people faced isolation and remote work during the pandemic, pet adoption rates soared. Dogs, in particular, became a popular choice, offering emotional support and helping families navigate the uncertainty of lockdown life. The benefits were undeniable:

• Emotional well-being: Dogs helped combat loneliness, anxiety, and depression.

• Structure: Walking, feeding, and caring for a dog gave people a sense of routine.

• Connection: Dogs fostered bonds within families and even among socially distanced neighbours.

Animal shelters and breeders struggled to keep up with demand as families rushed to bring home furry companions.

THE POST-PANDEMIC REALITY

As life returned to normal, the responsibilities of dog ownership became a challenge for many. Changes in routine, economic pressures, and a general lack of preparedness for long term responsibility led to a sharp increase in abandoned dogs.

1. Return to work

With offices reopening, many dog owners found they could no longer dedicate as much time to their pets. Dogs accustomed to constant companionship during lockdowns struggled with separation anxiety, leading to behavioural issues that some owners were ill-equipped to handle.

2. Financial strain

The economic fallout of the pandemic left many families unable to afford the costs of dog care, including food, vet bills, and training. This has been a significant factor in the rise of dogs being surrendered to shelters.

3. Behavioural challenges

Dogs adopted during the pandemic often missed out on early socialisation and training due to restrictions and became used to constant companionship from humans. As a result, many developed fear, anxiety, or reactivity issues, making them harder to manage in a post-pandemic world.

4. Overwhelmed shelters

Animal shelters are now facing an unprecedented crisis. The influx of surrendered dogs, coupled with reduced adoption rates, has left many facilities overcrowded and underfunded.

THE IMPACT ON DOGS

The consequences of these trends have been devastating for dogs. Overcrowded shelters are unpleasant for abandoned animals, and in some regions shelters have felt they have no choice but to euthanise healthy dogs due to lack of space.

WHAT CAN WE DO

While the situation is dire, there are ways for dog lovers and communities to make a difference:

1. Adopt, don’t shop

If you’re considering adding a dog to your family, adopt from a shelter or rescue organisation instead of purchasing from breeders. Many wonderful dogs are waiting for homes.

2. Foster a dog

Fostering provides temporary homes for dogs, helps shelters alleviate overcrowding and helps dogs who struggle to cope in the shelter environment. It’s also a rewarding way to support dogs in need without a long-term commitment.

3. Support shelters

Donate money, supplies, or your time to local shelters. Many organisations are in desperate need of resources to care for the rising number of abandoned dogs.

4. Advocate for education

Encourage responsible pet ownership by promoting early training, socialisation, and understanding of the long-term commitment involved in caring for a dog.

5. Help struggling owners

Offer support to friends or neighbours who may be struggling with their pets. Sometimes, a bit of advice, training help, or financial assistance can make all the difference.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Dogs were lifelines for many during the pandemic, offering unconditional love during one of the most challenging periods in recent history. As we move forward, it’s our responsibility to ensure that they are not forgotten and discarded. If you are able to help in any way with the crisis our canine population currently faces, please do so, and if you are already offering assistance and would be happy to tell your story, please reach out to info@dqmagazine.co.za