Page 25 - Jennifer Mooney

RESEARCH Chapter 2: Research

Synthesis & Key Findings

Key Finding

• Shelters are overcrowded, underfunded, and need more publicity.
• Surge of adoption rates during Covid lock-down.
• Significant preferences for dogs as pets.

• Pet adoption in Ireland significantly lacks training and support services for pet adopters.
• Trends in demographics showing higher adoption rates among middle-aged women

and younger adults.
• Need for more awareness and pet care information.
• Need for more support and training resources to improve pet adoptions across Ireland.

• Motivations for adoption include companionship, saving a life, and adding to the family.
• Barriers for adoption include behavioural concerns, family dynamics, and lack of
training and resources.

• Ireland’s pet adoption services significantly lacks training and support services.
• High demand for more awareness, pet care information, support, and training resources
to improve pet adoptions across Ireland.

• Behavioural issues is the number one concern around adopting a pet from a shelter.

Research Summary

The qualitative data collected from both pet adopters and an animal rescue organisation reveals significant gaps in the pet adoption process. Key findings of
qualitative data indicate that many adopters feel inadequately informed about their pets' backgrounds and care requirements, and lacking post-adoption support
hinders long-term success. Furthermore, insufficient training provided to animals in shelters contributes to behavioural issues that frequently lead to pet returns.

To enhance the adoption experience and reduce return rates, it is crucial that pet adopters are provided with training techniques, pet care knowledge, and support
services. Addressing these issues will foster a more informed and responsible approach to pet ownership, ultimately benefiting both adopters and their pets.

In summary, enhancing the education on pets and pet ownership, providing consistent and accessible training, and fostering a community-driven approach to pet
welfare could encourage more individuals to consider adopting, ultimately reducing the number of homeless animals in Ireland.