Risk factors for relinquishment of dogs to an animal shelter

• DOI: 10.2460/javma.1996.209.03.572
• Publication Date: 2023-12-28T14:30:18Z
• Authors: Gary J. Patronek; Lawrence T. Glickman; Alan M. Beck; George P. McCabe; Carol Ecker
• Keywords: Animal-Assisted Therapy; HUBzero; Companion animal

Objective To identify canine and household characteristics associated with relinquishment of a pet dog to an animal shelter. Design Case-control study. Sample Population Households that relinquished dogs for adoption (case households) random sample current dog-owning households in the same community (control households). Results Potentially modifiable factors explained highest proportion were owners not participating obedience classes after acquisition, lack veterinary care, owning sexually intact dog, inappropriate care expectations, having daily or weekly elimination. Dogs obtained from shelters, kept crates, acquired at ≥ 6 months age increased risk relinquishment. Greater purchase price was decreased relinquishment, but degree planning acquire dog. behavioral problems little greater than regular expectations. Clinical Implications Risk identified this study can be modified by veterinarians decrease estimated 2 million euthanatized annually shelters. Veterinarians should educate about typical behavior, routine requirements training, importance visits; incorporate wellness concepts their practice; focus on preventive medicine consultation. ( J Am Vet Med Assoc 1996,209:572-581)