The surge in pet acquisition during COVID-19 lockdowns created a wave of behavioural and welfare problems as lifestyles normalised and animals struggled to adapt.
The pandemic pet acquisition boom created predictable but underappreciated welfare consequences. Animals acquired for emotional support during lockdown often became poorly socialised, hyper-attached companions that struggled severely when owners returned to pre-pandemic routines. The combination of reduced early socialisation (lockdown restrictions limited exposure to diverse environments and people), intensive early human contact, and then sudden reduction in human availability created conditions for separation anxiety on a large scale. Relinquishments to shelters peaked in many countries as owners unable to manage behavioural problems sought relief. The welfare lesson from the pandemic is that responsible acquisition requires honest advance planning for post-acquisition life circumstances, not just present-moment emotional need.