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RESEARCH Chapter 2: Research
Literature Review & Analysis
Motivations for Pet Adoption Barriers for Pet Adoption
There are many reasons to adopt an animal, but research shows that the main motivation According to the ISPCA (2023), four in ten non-dog owners have considered
for adopting a pet is for companionship (Irish Times, 2023). adoption from a shelter but worry about behavioural (27%) and health issues
(22%). Another barrier to adopting a pet is the lack of training (26%) and lack of
Other reasons inlcude: appropriate housing for pets (18%). (ISPCA, 2023)
• Saving a Life: Adopting from a shelter offers a second chance to animals who have
been abused, neglected, or abandoned. The choice to adopt already homeless animals Other reasons inlcude:
directly saves a life and helps open shelter spaces for others in need. • Personal Reasons: The most common personal challenges that surround pet
• Healthier Pets: Shelter animals typically receive necessary medical care, such as ownership include changes in family circumstances or physical illness.
vaccinations and spaying or neutering, making them healthier companions. Shelters • Housing Situation: A change of housing situations or current landlord rules
can also give insights into the animal’s medical history. enforcing that no pets are allowed.
• Behavioural Benefits: Some shelters offer training for the animals, leading to a better- • Financial Restraints: Lack of finances can cause a challenge for getting a
adjusted pet and may introduce basic obedience skills, but not all shelters facilitate this. pet.
Shelter staff can also guide people to finding the most suitable pet for their needs. • Time Restrictions: Individuals with busy work or family schedules may
• Cost-Effectiveness: While there are fees included with adoption, they are much more underestimate the extra time and commitment it takes to own a new pet.
affordable than purchasing from breeders. These fees also generally cover vaccinations • Change of Mind: Many individuals rush their decisions when seeking a pet
and spaying/neutering, while also helping to support the shelter. and may find that the pet does not suit their needs or circumstances.
• Community Support: Adopting also contributes to local communities and supports • Wrong Pet: Some individuals may choose a pet that is too big or energetic
essential animal welfare efforts. (ISPCA, 2024) for their environment and regret their decision of getting that pet, leading to
possible abandonment or surrendering to animal shelters.
• Behavioural / Health Issues: The pet may have unforeseen behavioural or
health issues which, without support or proper treatment, may lead to the pet
ISPCA Report owner becoming overwhelmed and result in them surrendering their pet.
• Pet-friendly Facilities: Another common barrier includes the lack of suitable
According to the ISPCA, major challenges to pet ownership include the lack of dog- supports, facilities, and pet-friendly infrastructures.
minding facilities (32%) and limited dog-friendly travel and accommodation (31%), along
with a significant lack of pet-friendly housing (29%). Other barriers are the scarcity of
pet-friendly restaurants (15%), public transport (12%), and public spaces (11%). The
ISPCA CEO highlights that cost, behavioral concerns, and lack of facilities and housing
Unfortunately, individuals often make impulsive decisions regarding pets and do
are the primary obstacles to adoption, suggesting that guaranteed good behavior
not consider the physical and emotional needs of a pet, especially by the needs
(27%), health (22%), and provided training (26%) would increase adoption rates. He
of different breeds, but rather look for a cute pet that will fit into their homes
also notes that 8% of recent dog owners have surrendered or considered surrendering
and lives with ease. As this lack of awareness by potential pet owners is often
a dog, with behavioral issues (41%), changes in housing (28%), and inability to
the case, many pets end up neglected or surrendered to shelters. (Walsh, 2023)
care (23%) being the main reasons, emphasising the importance of proper training.
