Dogs Trust Ireland and DSPCA saw an unprecedented surge in adoption inquiries during the Covid-19 pandemic, as thousands of Irish households turned to pets for companionship.
At Dogs Trust’s Finglas rehoming centre, weekly inquiries jumped from about 70 before lockdown to nearly 400. Since March, more than 7,000 rehoming questionnaires were completed. With people working from home and children out of school, many families felt it was finally the right time to welcome a dog or cat.
The DSPCA reported similar trends and even noted a drop in the usual post-Christmas surrender of pets. Education officer Gillian Bird said many families carefully considered pet ownership during lockdown, rather than making impulsive decisions.
Research supports the emotional benefits. Dr. Christine McGarrigle of the Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing at Trinity College Dublin found that pet ownership among adults over 50 is linked to higher physical activity, stronger social connections and even improved muscle strength. Nearly 45% of adults in that age group own a pet, with dogs the most common.
Experts say tactile interaction with animals may release oxytocin, reducing stress and supporting overall wellbeing.
Still, animal charities warn against impulse buying online, where unregulated breeders operate. Adoption remains the safest and most ethical route. Staff continue urging families to choose pets suited to their lifestyle — not trends.
Despite financial strain and reduced fundraising during the pandemic, shelters report heartening success stories, including older and “quirky” dogs finding loving homes. In a year defined by isolation, Ireland’s growing bond with its pets became an unexpected silver lining.
