SPCA of Brazoria County

It’s a common misconception that pets need 24/7 attention and resources from their owners. And because of that, we’ve heard every reason under the sun from community members seeking to surrender their family pets.

Crazy work schedules, new baby, moving cross-country, financial limitations, lack of time. We’ve heard it all, usually followed by some variation of:

They’ll be better off at the shelter until they get adopted by a new family.

At which point, we do our best to smile as we share some truths.

Fact: Shelters are overcrowded.

Across the country, animal shelters are operating at or above capacity. For example, right now, we have 575 animals in care. More than 300 of those are at our main shelter location, a building originally built to house only 130 animals.

Every empty kennel matters—keeping a pet in a loving, even if somewhat chaotic, home frees up space for another animal in need. Surrendering a perfectly healthy pet only contributes to this growing strain.

Fact: Animals in shelters are at a higher risk of illness.

Stressful environments, crowded kennels, and constant exposure to other animals make shelter pets more vulnerable to illness. Even the healthiest pets can experience increased anxiety, which can weaken their immune system and make them more susceptible to infections or behavioral issues.

In contrast, a home provides stability and safety, with familiar smells, predictable routines, and comforting spaces that help your pet feel secure. Regular meals, consistent attention, and a calm environment all contribute to better physical and mental health, allowing your pet to thrive rather than simply survive.

Fact: Adoptions are low across the country.

Even though many families are looking for pets, adoption rates aren’t keeping pace with the number of animals in need. According to the ASPCA, 5.8 million animals entered shelters in 2024, but only 4.2 million were adopted.

Every pet surrendered adds to the competition for limited adoption spots, meaning your dog or cat may wait a long time to find their forever family—

Fact: Both cats and dogs sleep around 12-14 hours during the day.

With sufficient exercise, enrichment, and attention once you’re home, your dog will be just fine while you’re at work. And your cat? She probably prefers ruling the kingdom without interference from her minions – ah. Humans.

For even longer periods, or if you have a pet with special needs that require more frequent check-ins? See if your retired neighbor is willing to come throw the ball a few times for your pup. If nobody in your immediate circle is available, hire a pet-walker! Local teens are great options for this – and usually on the very affordable side.

Fact: Small changes make a big difference.

Simple solutions like crate training, interactive feeders, timed play sessions, or hiring a local pet-sitter can dramatically reduce stress for pets and prevent unnecessary shelter surrenders. Even small adjustments to a pet’s daily routine—like leaving a favorite toy, providing a cozy resting spot, or setting up short periods of enrichment while you’re away—can help them feel secure and engaged.

Many of the obstacles that lead owners to consider surrender, from long work hours to busy family schedules, can be managed with creativity, planning, and a little help from the community. Local neighbors, teen volunteers, or professional pet care providers are often more accessible than you might think, and their support can make the difference between a pet staying happily at home and entering a crowded shelter.

In the end, these small steps preserve the bond between you and your pet while also freeing up shelter space for animals truly in crisis.

Your Pet Thrives Where They Belong.

Keeping your pet at home, with the right support and care, isn’t just possible—it’s life-changing for them and for the pets waiting in shelters. With a little planning, some creative solutions, and a dose of patience, your pet can thrive without ever needing to leave your family.

Need more support? Residents of Brazoria County can email us at posh@spcabc.org to discuss ways we can help that keep your pet out of the shelter. A little planning, some extra support, and a lot of love can keep your pet safely at home—where they belong.

Every pet that stays out of a shelter is a life saved, a kennel freed, and a family kept whole. Your pet doesn’t need perfection; they just need you.