Fur A Good Paws

Samantha Caban

Co-Presenters: Individual Presentation

College: Michael Graves College

Major: BFA.GRAPHICDESIGN

Faculty Research Mentor: Denise Anderson

Abstract:

Pet surrenders have risen significantly since the pandemic, shifting from a 2% decrease in 2020 to a 5% increase by 2023. National shelter data shows that housing restrictions, veterinary expenses, and overall care costs now account for nearly one-third of all surrender cases, with financial strain emerging as the leading cause. Behavioral issues represent another 28%, often tied to a lack of training, disrupted routines, or anxiety rather than inherent problems with the pets themselves. As of 2024, 92% of U.S. shelters report operating over capacity, a crisis that has led to overcrowding, increased disease transmission, higher euthanasia rates, and staff burnout levels nearly five times the national workforce average. According to Old Bridge, NJ shelter coordinator Karen Chen, surrender spikes after COVID-19 were driven by two converging issues: pets struggling with separation anxiety as owners returned to in-person work, and families unable to keep up with rising care costs. Fur A Good Paws responds to this urgent need by providing donation-supported care packages designed to keep pets with the families who love them. By delivering essential supplies directly to the doorstep, the program offers practical relief with dignity—no travel, no stress, and no stigma—helping to prevent surrenders before they happen.