Petflation is forcing pet owners to surrender their animals

CHARLOTTE, NC — The economy is even taking a toll on pets. The number of animals being surrendered to shelters have spiked nationally. The cost of owning the pet is a big reason why.

“We know that the cost of veterinary care has gone up, but everything else that you have to have to take care of, a pet has also gone up as well,” said Melissa Knicely from Charlotte-Mecklenburg Animal Care & Control.

A study by the Bank of America Institute shows prices of veterinary care and grooming have gone up 42% since 2019. Costs of goods like pet food and treats have jumped 22% in that time.

The American Veterinary Medical Association said the rising costs of medical supplies, utilities and pharmaceuticals is causing vets to charge more but, there are things pet owners can do to lower care costs.

“If you start on them on pet health insurance when they’re young and you carry it through their life, pet health insurance will help you if a catastrophic event happens,” explained Dr. Michael Bailey, President of the American Veterinary Medical Association.

Animal Care & Control helps pet owners with one of the costs. Hosting several free vaccine drive-thrus. Hundreds of cars waiting in line to save money.

“Just looking at the number of cars that line up and will wait for an hour or two to get a free rabies vaccine and it’s from all walks of life,” explained Knicely.

ACC is holding another rabies vaccine drive-thru on Saturday, August 9th at 2725 Beam Road, Charlotte, NC 28217 from 8AM to 10:45AM. They host a vaccine drive-thru the second Saturday of every month.

Stand For Animals also offers low-cost spay and neuter and vet care in Charlotte.