The Arizona Humane Society is sounding the alarm over a worsening pet crisis after taking in more than 25,000 dogs and cats in 2025 — the highest number the organization has seen in more than a decade. The shelter now projects intake numbers could climb to 28,000 animals in 2026 if urgent action is not taken.
The surge reflects a growing national crisis fueled by several factors, including the suspension of spay and neuter services during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, rising veterinary costs, and irresponsible breeding practices. Across the country, shelters were unable to perform routine sterilization procedures during the pandemic, creating a ripple effect that continues to overwhelm shelters today.
At the same time, veterinary care costs have risen approximately 40%, forcing many families into the heartbreaking position of surrendering beloved pets they can no longer afford to care for. Irresponsible breeding has further compounded the issue, increasing the number of unwanted litters entering already overcrowded shelters.
For comparison, Maricopa County shelters took in approximately 9,000 pets last year alone.
“The reality is that we cannot adopt our way out of this crisis,” said Ann Siner, Valley Philanthropist. “The only true solution is spay and neuter. If these numbers continue to rise unchecked, more pets across Arizona will face euthanasia simply because there is nowhere for them to go.”
In response, Ms. Siner has pledged $600,000 to launch a major spay and neuter initiative and is calling on Arizonans to join her effort.
“It breaks my heart to see so many pets in need with nowhere to go, so I decided to give $600,000 and challenge people in Arizona to step up and help,” said Siner. “Please donate — every dollar helps, even $50.”
As part of the campaign, Ann Siner will personally match every donation of $1,000 or more, up to a total of $600,000.
The initiative will focus on dogs weighing 40 pounds and over in zip codes where sterilization rates remain low. Qualified pet owners will receive free spay and neuter vouchers to help prevent unwanted litters and reduce the number of animals entering shelters.
The Arizona Humane Society hopes the campaign will inspire a statewide movement to address the root causes of pet homelessness before the crisis worsens further. “The Arizona Humane Society is so grateful for Ann’s long-time support and vision for spay/neuter as the most proactive way to end animal suffering,” said Lauren Martich, VP of Development for the organization. “Ann has generously supported us and spay/neuter programs for over 30 years in the Valley. Her commitment to animals is inspiring.”
Anyone in need of a free spay or neuter can contact the Arizona Humane Society’s Veterinary Clinics at 602-997-7585, option 3 or visit www.azhumane.org/spay-neuter.
Anyone interested in making a donation to support the Arizona Humane Society’s Circle of Friends spay/neuter efforts, visit https://www.azhumane.org/circle-of-friends/ or call (602) 997-7585, Option 4 to donate.
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