Home for the Holidays: Adoption Trends for Dogs During the Holiday Season - Shelter Animals Count
09Dec’24
Home for the Holidays: Adoption Trends for Dogs During the Holiday Season
As the holiday season approaches, animal shelters and rescues nationwide ramp up their efforts to find loving homes for pets. The data shows their hard work is paying off. According to Shelter Animals Count, the adoption rate for dogs—measured as the number of adoptions compared to total intakes during the same period—has consistently peaked in the final quarter of the year over the past two years. This trend suggests that 2024 may follow suit, making it a pivotal time for shelters and potential adopters alike.
Adoption Rates at a Glance
Over the last two years, the adoption rate for dogs has shown steady improvement, with the highest rates occurring in Q4:
This data underscores a notable trend: despite fewer intakes during the last quarter of the year, adoption activity remains high. December, in particular, stands out as a time when shelters often see an increase in adoption numbers. Shelters and rescues capitalize on the season’s spirit of giving and togetherness, creating campaigns and events to ensure more pets find their new homes.
Why Q4 Matters
The fourth quarter represents a unique period in animal welfare. Historically, intakes tend to slow down during this time, providing an opportunity for shelters to focus on placing the animals already in their care. Many organizations launch holiday-themed adoption initiatives, such as waived or reduced adoption fees, festive events, and community partnerships aimed at encouraging adoptions.
The increased focus on finding homes during the holidays benefits not only the pets but also the families who open their hearts and homes. For many, the holidays are a time to make lasting memories, and adopting a pet can be a meaningful way to add joy and companionship to the season.
Driving Success with Data
The trends we see today are no accident. Shelters and rescues rely on data to inform their strategies and measure success. By analyzing adoption rates and intake patterns, organizations can better understand when and how to target their efforts. Data also helps illustrate the incredible impact of their work, demonstrating to communities and donors that their support makes a real difference.
This is also a time when we hear narrative surrounding giving pets as gifts. According to an ASPCA study, which asked if obtaining a pet as a gift increased, decreased or had no impact on the love or attachment to the pet: 96 percent thought it either increased or had no impact, and 86 percent of the pets referred to in the study were still in the home.
Looking Ahead
With Q4 adoption rates holding steady at 55% for the past two years, the stage is set for 2024 to continue this positive momentum. As shelters prepare for another busy holiday season, they’ll rely on data-driven strategies and community support to ensure that as many pets as possible find loving homes before the year ends.
So, whether you’re considering adding a furry friend to your family or supporting your local shelter through donations or volunteering, now is the perfect time to get involved. Together, we can make this holiday season the best yet for pets in need.