Millions of cats and dogs enter shelters annually, and despite progress in reducing euthanasia rates in many countries, overpopulation remains a significant animal welfare challenge.
Shelter confinement is inherently stressful for most animals. Even well-managed shelters cause elevated cortisol, reduced immunity, and behavioral deterioration in long-term residents. The most welfare-respecting approaches minimize shelter time through efficient adoption processes, foster programs, and community-based retention support. Addressing upstream causes through spay-neuter access in underserved communities prevents suffering before it begins.