Rise in Pet Ownership Reported Throughout 2021

Animal adoptions rose substantially throughout the pandemic, with some shelters even running out of adoptable pets as stay-at-home orders drove millions indoors where some furry company was much-needed.

Analysis by the National Association of Realtors also showed that 43% of pet owners were willing to move to accommodate their pets and more buyers also prioritized their 4-legged companions when searching for a home.

The pandemic upped adoptions of both cats and dogs for companionship, something to do away from a screen, and for entertainment. For a period of time, shelters found themselves out of pets as all had found forever homes. The cost for dogs and cats rose as the demand for animals increased, similar to the rise in housing costs.

Analysis showed 43% of pet owners in the U.S. would be willing to move to accommodate their pet! Since there is growth in pet adoptions during the pandemic, this may spur more activity from pet owners. Often rentals have high pet fees, or may restrict the number of pets allowed in a unit. Purchasing becomes a choice for some buyers that may be driven with their pet in mind.

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