Source: MassLive
Massachusetts’ housing crisis is forcing many residents to surrender their pets, with shelters seeing a sharp increase in housing-related pet abandonments. The Animal Rescue League of Boston (ARL Boston) and the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (MSPCA) report that over 700 pets were surrendered in 2023 due to housing issues—double the previous year.
Pet owners are struggling with sudden housing instability, restrictive pet policies, and rising costs. Only 40% of rental units in Massachusetts allow pets, and fewer than 7% have no breed or weight restrictions. In addition, pet ownership costs have surged, with Boston ranked the least pet-friendly city in the U.S. Two Massachusetts bills aim to protect pet owners from eviction, ban breed restrictions, and expand pet-friendly housing. Local shelters are also expanding services, with ARL Boston rebuilding its adoption center to increase low-cost vet care and shelter capacity.