5. 8 million dogs and cats entered U.S. shelters and rescues in 2025 - 2. 8 million dogs and 3 million cats.

The length of time dogs, especially large dogs, are staying in shelters before being adopted has increased in the past five years, adding strain to a shelter system that was already stretched thin.

This extended length of time in shelters contributes to the ongoing capacity crisis, limiting space for new animals.