US animal shelter intake drops 4% in first half of 2025
Given the current statistics, about 2.8 million cats and dogs entered US animal shelter intake through June. Adoption percentages dropped 1% from the previous year. Staff and veterinary shortages continue to be a challenge.
In the first half of 2025, shelters across the United States took in about 2.8 million cats and dogs. This marks a 4% decrease compared to the same period in 2024, according to a new report by Shelter Animals Count (SAC).
SAC noted that despite the overall drop in US animal shelter intake, many organizations remain over capacity. They still struggle to move animals through the system efficiently. The report used data from nearly 14,000 shelters and rescue organizations nationwide.
Dog intake has dropped consistently month by month throughout 2025, while cat intake has stayed steady, especially in the summer months when kitten populations surge.
Although intake capacity has decreased, several organizations remain over capacity and struggle to move animals through their systems efficiently. Data from almost 14,000 shelters and rescues across the nation highlights this challenge.
Throughout 2025, dog intakes have steadily declined each month, while cat intakes have stayed consistent during the summer months when kitten populations typically rise.
Euthanasia or death in care decreased by almost 5% among dogs, while the rates for cats went up, mainly among the vulnerable kitten population.
This report comes from the efforts of nearly 14,000 organizations nationwide,” said Stephanie Filer, executive director of SAC. “With the data they provided, we can show a clear picture of the industry’s status. We can also compare it to the same period last year and look ahead to 2025.”
The report adds new analytical layers, including breakdowns by organization type. These include governmental shelters, facilities with municipal contracts, private shelters, and rescues.
“Many shelters face staffing and veterinarian shortages, along with too few adoptions,” said Christa Chadwick, ASPCA’s vice president of shelter services. “We urge animal welfare groups and communities to work together. The goal is to keep pets in loving homes and out of shelters. We also call for advocacy to remove adoption barriers like limited pet-friendly housing and high veterinary costs.”
The Mid-Year Report from Shelter Animals Count offers the sector a clearer, unified view of shelter challenges. This insight fosters collaboration, guides strategies, and helps improve animal welfare nationwide.
