Adoptions take an upturn at Dog and Cat Shelter

The Sheridan Dog and Cat Shelter shows signs they have gotten through the region’s adoption slump.

In 2024, the Nation experienced a decrease, albeit slightly, in pet adoptions compared to the previous year, resulting in 82,000 fewer adoptions overall. 

According to Shelter Animals Count Mid-Year Analysis 2024 report, while adoption rates were still high, the number of adoptions couldn’t keep pace with the number of animals that were entering shelters. This trend led to capacity challenges for many shelters in the Cowboy State and the Sheridan Dog and Cat Shelter was no exception. 

But as the fifth month of 2025 comes to a close, Sheridan Dog and Cat Shelter Dog Lead Liz Lande told listeners of Sheridan Media’s Public Pulse, it appears the trend has passed. 

L. Lande

The procedure to adopt a dog from the Sheridan Dog and Cat Shelter can take up to a week and involves at least two “meet and greets” with the animal. Although some have expressed criticism of the procedure, Lande said the new standard operating procedure has cut down on the amount of animals returned to the shelter.  

Learn more about the shelter and see who’s available for adoption by clicking here.