09/29/2025
The Dog Blog
The tsunami of unwanted dogs is a dilemma:
No one can argue that there are too many dogs on the planet right now. In Canada, we are experiencing a homeless dog dilemma. We’re better off than some countries, in terms of numbers, but in a crisis, nonetheless. Where are all these dogs coming from? And how did this overwhelming tsunami of unwanted dogs come to be? It’s complex with various issues at play. While spaying and neutering has always been the first line of recommended action and one of the heavyweight solutions in our toolbox, it’s not a solo fix.
Since the COVID pandemic, unwanted dogs seem to be appearing from all directions, but the issue goes deeper than just the pandemic.
During COVID, isolation, loneliness, frustrated children, the need for companionship, and even an excuse to get outside, were among the reasons people acquired dogs. Demand surged—and supply quickly followed. Puppy mills and backyard breeders ramped up "production", and even everyday dog owners began breeding their dogs to cash in.
The pandemic ends. Life returns to normal. Parents head back to work, kids to school, and the routines of pre-COVID times resume – but for the dogs who had been acquired during that time, everything changes.
Suddenly, no one is home. Time is tight. Money is tighter. ‘Covid Dogs’ start to feel more like a burden rather than a cherished companion. Unwanted dogs landed in shelters, in rescues and on Kijiji in record numbers. Some believed the wave of surrendered dogs had subsided—but boots on the ground tell a different tale. Shelters remain constantly overflowing and rescues are always at capacity. Unethical breeders continue producing puppies. Unplanned litters keep arriving—often due to financial struggles, limited access to veterinary care, or the lack of affordable spay/neuter services. International organizations continue transporting dogs into Canada, further flooding an already overwhelmed system.
Post-COVID, the cost of living skyrocketed almost overnight—both for people and their pets. Food, clothing, medication, rent, veterinary services are all more expensive (let’s face it, most everything is more costly).
Our rescue works daily with dog owners seeking our rehoming services. After 25 years of operating a dog rescue, our team has heard nearly every rehoming scenario imaginable.
Shaming, judging, or alienating someone who reaches out for help with their pet can lead to detrimental outcomes. Some may abandon their dog or choose to keep it, which could lead to a dog crated for long hours, abused, chained outside, or left without necessary medical or behavioural care—simply to avoid dealing with an unfriendly system. Life happens. Circumstances change.
Here’s the thing: it’s not about the owner. It’s about the dog.
Considerations before you get a dog:
· Think carefully before acquiring a dog—do your research.
· Can you afford medical care? Call your local vet if you’re unsure.
· Do you have the time, energy, and stability to give a dog a fulfilled life?
· Choose a dog who fits your lifestyle and family dynamic.
· Don’t make impulsive decisions.
· Meet the dog in person before committing.
· Avoid online shopping – you are most likely dealing with an unethical commercial mill or backyard breeder – adopt don’t shop!
· Look into purchasing pet insurance or open a ‘doggy’ savings account.
The dog overpopulation crisis is real but, by staying informed, choosing responsibly, and leading with compassion, we can all be part of the solution—for the sake of the dogs.
