Mary Allen
Introduction: The State of Dog Adoption in the UK
Dog adoption has been a popular way for many people in the UK to add a furry friend to their family. Adopting a dog not only provides a home for a dog in need but also brings a sense of companionship and joy to the adopter’s life. However, despite the benefits of dog adoption, thousands of dogs still remain in shelters and rescues waiting for a forever home. In this article, we will take a closer look at the number of dogs adopted in the UK, changes in adoption rates over the years, common reasons for dog surrender, and the role of shelters and rescues in dog adoption.
The Number of Dogs Adopted in the UK in 2019
According to the latest data from the Dogs Trust, the UK’s largest dog welfare charity, a total of 47,596 dogs were adopted in the UK in 2019. This figure represents a 2% increase from the previous year. Of these adoptions, 32,845 were from shelters and rescues, while the remaining 14,751 were from private rehoming or other sources. While the number of adoptions has increased, it is important to note that there are still thousands of dogs waiting for a home.
Changes in Dog Adoption Rates Over the Years
Over the past decade, there has been a steady increase in the number of dogs being adopted in the UK. In 2010, a total of 33,000 dogs were adopted, compared to 47,596 in 2019. This represents a 44% increase in the number of dogs adopted over the past decade. However, despite this increase, there are still many challenges to overcome in reducing the number of dogs in shelters and rescues. These challenges include breed-specific legislation, lack of education on responsible dog ownership, and financial constraints for potential adopters.