Pet Rescue Landscape in Ireland
Petmania Report: Pet Rescue Landscape in Ireland
62% of Irish Pet Owners Have Adopted Rescues: Petmania’s 2024 Report Highlights Ireland’s Growing Commitment to Animal Welfare
Ireland is embracing pet adoption with enthusiasm, as shown by the 62% of pet owners who have chosen to adopt rescues. Petmania, Ireland’s leading pet care retailer highlights this growing commitment to animal welfare in its 2024 Pet Rescue and Adoption Report. The report reveals both the inspiring trends in pet adoption and the pressing challenges faced by Ireland’s rescue centers, calling for more public support to bolster these efforts and advocate for responsible pet ownership.
Irish survey in June 2024
Drawing on two extensive surveys—one with 943 pet owners and another with 38 rescue centers nationwide—the report brings forward insights into Ireland’s evolving approach to animal welfare and highlights areas for potential public and policy engagement.
The report finds a significant adoption rate, with 84% of surveyed pet owners bringing a rescue animal into their homes within the last five years. This trend reflects a growing societal awareness of adoption’s importance. Additionally, over a quarter of adopters have taken in more than one pet, showcasing an increased willingness to support multiple animals in need.
High number of pets not microchipped
The report also reveals areas that require attention, such as the fact that 61% of rescue pets were not neutered and 59% were not microchipped prior to adoption. These are key practices Petmania advocates to reduce pet overpopulation and improve the chances of reuniting lost pets with their owners.
Rehoming senior pets
Rehoming senior pets poses another challenge; more than half of adoption centers report difficulties in finding homes for animals over five years old, underscoring the need to encourage the adoption of older pets.
“Petmania’s findings show that Ireland’s compassion for rescue pets is real and growing, but there is more to be done,” explains Emily Miller, Marketing Manager at Petmania. “We see that 94% of pet owners are willing to donate to support rescue efforts. This campaign aims to inspire people to get involved, whether by adopting, volunteering, or donating. Every pet deserves a loving home, and together, we can make that a reality.”
In its continued advocacy for responsible pet ownership, Petmania’s report addresses barriers to successful adoption, with health issues and age identified as significant challenges. Approximately 75% of shelters cite health problems as obstacles to rehoming, while 70% find age to be a factor. Petmania encourages the public to consider adopting pets with special needs and to support local shelters through donations, foster care, or volunteering.
Read the full report
The Petmania research was conducted through a survey of over 900 pet owners and 38 rescue centers across Ireland in June 2024.
To view the full 2024 Pet Rescue and Adoption Report, click here.
