More NJ Dog Owners Are Choosing Shelters Over Purebreds: Study

BLOOMFIELD, NJ — Are you a resident of Bloomfield in search of a new forever friend? There are plenty of dogs in animal shelters across New Jersey that need a loving home – and more of your Garden State neighbors are choosing them over “purebreds,” a study says.

Bone Voyage Dog Rescue recently conducted a study that claims a “significant shift” is taking place in New Jersey, with more people opting to adopt shelter dogs over purchasing purebreds from breeders. See the full results and its methodology here.

According to the study, which surveyed 3,000 potential dog owners in New Jersey, an “impressive” 53 percent of them expressed an intent to adopt from shelters, marking a 13 percent swing towards possible shelter dog ownership when contrasted with older data from the Humane Society of the United States. That data indicated 40 percent of pet dogs in households were previously shelter dogs.

What’s behind the rise in shelter adoptions? According to Bone Voyage Dog Rescue:

“For some, the exorbitant cost of purebred dogs, which can reach up to $10,000 for breeds such as Rottweilers and Chow Chows, is a considerable deterrent. For others, the concern is over health issues commonly associated with purebreds. English Bulldogs and Pugs, for instance, are often plagued with respiratory problems. Also, many individuals also feel a moral obligation to provide homes to shelter dogs.”

“This rising trend of adoption not only promises a brighter future for shelter dogs but also signifies a broader cultural shift towards responsible pet ownership and empathy towards animal welfare,” said Annette Thompson, executive director of Bone Voyage Dog Rescue.

“The data certainly supports the trend, and it’s a trend that would have immense impact across the animal welfare field,” Thompson added.

>> Want to adopt a new dog or cat in Bloomfield? The Bloomfield Township Animal Shelter may have your new forever friend waiting for you. Learn more about adopting from the shelter here.

>> You can also see local dogs and cats recently put up for adoption on the “Pets” section of Patch Bloomfield (click here to see recent articles).

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