Dogs were undeniably one of the main sources of comfort that humans leapt to when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Really, all types of pets became living safety blankets.
Sara Peeples, owner of Pet Village of Brentwood and director of Middle Tennessee Boxer Rescue, says hundreds of Nashville area people who never had dogs before turned to canines during the coronavirus isolation and ended up as buddies.
"It was a constant stream of dog surrenders, typical abandonments, helpful fosters and hopeful adopters," says Sara. "Walks with dogs during quarantine was such a big benefit. People and their new dogs became workout partners."
Nashville Humane Association representatives closed their doors for public operations during March 2020, due to health officials' recommendations; they reopened the facility by appointment-only in June. The association adopted 3,524 pets in 2019. However, Stacy Clark, NHA communications specialist, says they adopted fewer pets during 2020, with a tally of 2,923.
"One in three of the association's dogs or cats were adopted during COVID. But we were able to get 200 animals into foster homes within two days when COVID first hit," Stacy adds.
Shelter Animals Count, whose team runs a database that tracks shelter and rescue activity, looked at pet adoptions during the pandemic. The group, which tracks about 500 rescue organizations across the country, recorded 26,000 more pet adoptions in 2020 than in the year before — a rise of about 15 percent. In April near the beginning of the pandemic, the group watched the national pet adoption rate jump 34 percent over the same time a year earlier, according to the group’s “COVID-19 Impact Report.”
Shelter Animals Count representatives indicated some rescue groups nearly doubled the number of pets adopted during the first eight months of last year compared with a year earlier. Many people who adopted pets stated they needed “an emotional support animal” during the pandemic.
Sara reminds that adopting a new dog -- especially one that's been picked up from surviving on the street or from a hectic shelter environment -- takes work and patience. "We need to give them more grace. It's not just all snuggles and companionship. Dogs look to you as the leader and their advocate. You have to set expectations and take their needs to heart," she adds.
Animal rescue operators say they worry that as new pet owners head back to work on-site, some might not have time or want the responsibility and cost associated with an animal. That could lead to some dogs being returned to shelters, but officials advise new pet owners to prepare themselves — and their newly adopted pet — to the realities of “normal” life following these unusual pandemic situations.
One tip is to leave dogs alone in a crate or other area for up to an hour at a time so they get used to being alone. Experts also encourage pet owners to let their dog become accustomed to a walker or neighbor before they need assistance from that person on a consistent basis. Keep in mind certain dog types are more prone to separation anxiety due to genetics, such as herding and guarding breeds.
"Socializing dogs is crucial, so we recommend new dog owners work with reputable trainers or take their four-legged friends to doggie daycare or only controlled environments. It's important to realize that dogs easily get bored and need to burn off extra energy. Many dogs need 'jobs' to do to help keep them happy," says Sara.
She says rescue groups and adopters are the essential voices of animals. "Our roles are also to learn to determine when animals aren't quite ready for certain situations, and to protect them and help them discover how to work with us as best friends."
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Transition Tips For Fabulous Fiddos
- Introduce B.C. (before-COVID) routines prior to immediately returning to workday schedules.
- Walk your dog before leaving for work, allowing them to sniff and explore.
- Determine how to safely crate as long as dog doesn't cause self-harm attempting to get out.
- Invest in treat-dispensing puzzle toys.
- Connect with neighbors who are able to let the dog into a yard while you're gone.
- Consider a well-vetted dog daycare where operators are watchful and attentive.
- Keep your returns to home low-key and calm to not overemphasize to your dog that alone time is vastly different.
- If concerned about your pup’s continued anxiety, consult a veterinarian or an experienced dog trainer.