In our latest study, we analyzed post-adoption survey data from more than 22,000 dog and cat adopters across 112 shelters and rescues in 40 U.S. states, using automated surveys sent on Day 1, Week 1, and Month 1 post-adoption. We found that over 94% of adopters rated their experience positively at every time point. But high satisfaction did not mean an absence of challenges. More than 78% of dog adopters and 50% of cat adopters reported at least one behavioral or care-related issue. The key takeaway is that general satisfaction metrics may mask meaningful early challenges. These findings reinforce the importance of species-specific counseling, proactive follow-up, veterinary engagement, training support, and microchip education to strengthen long-term outcomes.
Authors
Margaret R. Slater College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
Emily Weiss EWC Inc, Valley Center, KS, USA; 3Shelter Medicine Program, College of Veterinary Medicine
Julie K. Levy University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
Michael Greenberg Petszel, New Orleans, LA, USA
Abstract
Methods:
Surveys were distributed automatically on Day 1, Week 1, and Month 1
post-adoption. Adopters were asked about general satisfaction, specific behaviours, veterinary
care, and microchip registration. Responses were included only if the pet was in the home at
time of survey. Data were summarised by species and time point using descriptive statistics.
Introduction:
Understanding the early post-adoption experience is critical to supporting
animal welfare, strengthening the human–animal bond, and improving shelter practices. While
most adopters report high satisfaction, behavioural and care-related challenges are common.
This study used the Petszel platform to evaluate early post-adoption outcomes across more
than 22,000 dog and cat adopters from 112 shelters and rescue organisations in 40 United
States (U.S.) states.
Results:
Over 94% rated their experience positively (score of 4 or 5 out of 5) at all time points.
However, more than 78% of dog adopters and 50% of cat adopters also reported at least
one challenge. Among dogs, common issues included house soiling (32%), play biting (34%),
leash pulling (28%), and separation distress/anxiety (24%). Among cats, the most frequent
challenges were fear or hiding (19%), introduction to existing pets (10%), anxiety in specific
situations (9%); destructive chewing/scratching (8%) and urinating and/or defecating outside
the litter box (5%) were both reported slightly less commonly. By Month 1, 56% of cat adopters
and 66% of dog adopters reported completing their pet’s first veterinary visit. Microchip
registration was reported by 61% of cat and 62% of dog adopters by Week 1. Nearly half of
dog adopters reported no plans for formal training by Month 1.
Conclusion:
Despite high satisfaction ratings, many adopters faced behavioural or care challenges.
These findings suggest that general satisfaction measures may obscure important challenges
as animals settle into their new homes. Species-specific counselling, proactive veterinary
engagement, and further microchip registration guidance may better support post-adoption
success.