Are shelter adoptions changing — and what does that mean for pets, people, and the future of animal welfare?

In this episode, we dive into the 2025 State of Shelter Adoptions Report, one of the most comprehensive snapshots of what shelters are experiencing right now.

Join host Katherine Shenar of The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement alongside industry leaders Ellen Taylor (Humane Society of Charlotte), Chris Ramon (Pasadena Humane), and Meghan Lehman (Hill’s Pet Nutrition) as they unpack the trends shaping today’s shelter landscape.

You’ll hear candid insights and real-world strategies on:

• Why intakes are rising nationwide

• What’s driving longer stays for large dogs

• How financial barriers are impacting adoption outcomes

• The encouraging rise in cat adoptions

• The growing importance of foster programs and post-adoption support

Whether you’re a shelter professional, industry partner, policymaker, or passionate pet advocate, this episode offers a thoughtful, data-driven look at where we are — and where we can go if we work together.

Access the full 2025 State of Shelter Adoptions Report at The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement’s website. https://theaawa.org/hills-2025-shelter-report/

Listening to this episode is one small step toward improving outcomes for pets and the people who love them. Press play and join the conversation.