BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) – Furry friends are being given up at a higher rate as rising costs seem to impact people across the country.
The Central Vermont Humane Society says their animal care budget has skyrocketed 22% more than this time last year.
While it takes a lot of money and work for the shelter to care for animals, high prices also make it hard for owners to keep pets.
CVHS says that as a result, they’re also seeing an increase in surrendered pets.
“The animals coming to us need more help. They need more behavioral support, they need more care. And they are staying with us longer,” said Sara Schrum of CVHS.
Humane Society officials say there’s a big gap in adoptions and animal care costs. For example, animal care costs around $860 per animal at the shelter, but adoption is only about $170.
The Central Vermont Humane Society is having their Walk for Animals fundraiser on Saturday at the statehouse lawn to reach their goal of $80,000.