Canada shelter dog adoption rates show significant trends

A survey of 6,000 Canadians by dog food delivery service Kabo indicates a significant number of citizens have owned or adopted shelter dogs. In British Columbia, 42 per cent of respondents reported their dog is from a shelter or rescue.

Research from the non-profit organization Humane Canada shows that British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario have the highest numbers of total rescue adoptions. Most owners of neglected or abused dogs, approximately 77 per cent, utilize local shelters such as the Langley Animal Protection Society (LAPS).

Beyond the welfare of animals, research cited by the BC SPCA suggests benefits for rescuers, noting that dog ownership is linked to improved mental health and a 24-per-cent reduction in all-cause mortality.