Summarizing Reasons for Surrender and Stakeholder Perceptions within the Published Literature on Companion-animal Relinquishment

Abstract

Systematic methods were used to analyze published literature on companion-animal relinquishment to gain broader understanding of the causes and solutions for relinquishment. A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted on 18 studies investigating reasons for dog surrender and dog euthanasia. An overall estimate for dog surrender for owner health/illness was 4.6% (95% CI: 4.1%, 5.2%). Pooling data from the current primary research on reasons for dog surrender is limited because of variability among studies. Data collection on reasons for surrender needs greater standardization on methodology. Stakeholder perceptions of reasons and solutions for relinquishment were explored among published reviews and commentaries using the analysis method framework. Four themes were identified: reasons why owners relinquish companion animals, solutions to companion-animal relinquishment, the role of euthanasia in relinquishment, and contributions of research to relinquishment. Results highlight the need for more research on reasons and suggest further development of educational opportunities for pet owners.