In Spain, a notable share of shelter animals finds new homes each year. A study titled Never Would Have Done, prepared by the Affinity Foundation, shows that 51% of the total 285,000 dogs and cats in the care of Spanish guardians in 2021 were adopted. This data is interpreted by the Foundation as a positive signal: first-time adoptions have been rising since 2018, with 3% more dogs and 10% more cats finding homes compared to the previous year. The trend underscores adoption as the chief strategy to prevent animals from lingering in shelters after abandonment.
The foundation’s director notes that these numbers reflect progress and a hopeful trajectory for the coming years. Adoption is seen as the most effective approach to ensure a future for animals that would otherwise remain in shelters, with the study highlighting that many of these adoptions succeed and do not require return to the shelter. According to Affinity Foundation research, about 90% of dog and cat adoptions from shelters are successful, while around 10% result in the animal being returned. This contrast emphasizes the importance of thoughtful matching, preparation, and ongoing support for adopters.
In the study, about 34% of failed adoptions are attributed to behavior issues in dogs or cats. Roughly 40% of these returns occur within the first month after intake, a period the researchers describe as relatively short for achieving a truly satisfactory adaptation to the new home. The data suggest that setting realistic expectations about the adaptation period and the time needed for a family and an animal to acclimate is crucial for long-term success.
The director explains that guardians should prepare for a gradual process of adjustment and acknowledges the delicate situation many face during the summer months. While shelter intakes may remain steady in the summer, adoption rates tend to slow down or stop, creating a buildup of animals and a sense of unsustainability for shelters. This seasonal pattern highlights the need for planning, outreach, and support to keep animal welfare at the forefront even when routines shift with vacation periods and school holidays.
As families return to their daily rhythms, now can be a particularly good time to consider adopting a pet. A stable routine can greatly aid the adaptation process, allowing both the animal and the household to establish familiar habits and roles. The foundation’s leadership emphasizes that adoption remains a compassionate and practical option — one that can transform both a shelter animal’s life and the family that welcomes them, especially when guardians are prepared for the journey ahead. The overall message is about informed expectations, ongoing support, and the shared responsibility of ensuring successful, lasting placements for dogs and cats in Spain.