Economic Struggles Force Pet Owners in Nigeria to Abandon Beloved Animals

As economic hardship deepens in Nigeria, many pet owners like Preye Maxwell are compelled to abandon their pets due to inability to afford their care. The inflation crisis is causing an unprecedented increase in pet abandonment, with shelters reporting more animals than they can handle.

Heartbreak continues to grip Nigeria as economic challenges push many pet owners to abandon their beloved companions. In Lagos, a city known for its vibrant culture and bustling streets, heart-wrenching stories are emerging from animal shelters as families like Preye Maxwell's find themselves unable to provide for their pets amidst rising living costs.

Preye Maxwell, recently unemployed and searching for new opportunities, made the painful decision to leave his two-year-old American Eskimo, Hanks, at St Mark's Animal Rescue Foundation. "I can't afford to take care of him. I can't afford to feed him the way he should be fed," he confessed, his voice thick with despair.

Dr. Mark Afua, a veterinarian and founder of the shelter, reports a troubling trend: between 10 to 12 dogs are being surrendered each month due to financial constraints. Following the removal of a longstanding fuel subsidy, inflation surged to a staggering 35% in late 2024, creating a financial crunch that has left many families struggling.

This economic strain has affected a multitude of households, compelling pet owners to make tough choices as prices for pet food and veterinary care have skyrocketed—sometimes doubling or even tripling. According to the National Bureau of Statistics, the prices of essentials continue to climb, and many individuals like Maxwell are feeling that burden acutely.

Animal advocacy groups are witnessing a drastic increase in abandoned pets. Some owners deliberately drop their animals at shelters, while others, overwhelmed by their circumstances, abandon them in public spaces. Jackie Idimogu, president of "My Dog and I," an animal rights community, reported a disturbing shift in people's attitudes; many owners are prematurely abandoning their pets without attempting to find new homes.

On the other hand, animal lovers are adapting their lifestyles to keep their pets. Jackie Idimogu, a furniture designer, spends a significant portion of her income caring for her four dogs. Despite the financial strain, she asserts, "My dogs are my babies. I don’t think I could bear to give them up."

Similarly, others express deep concern for the future of their pets. Iyke Elueze, struggling to feed his ten dogs due to soaring costs, worries about their fate if surrendered. "I am very careful with who adopts my dogs. I don't want my dogs ending up in any other person's pots," he said, referring to the disturbing reality of dog meat being consumed in some regions.

With shelters overwhelmed and resources stretched thin, Dr. Afua fears the grim outcome for many animals. His organization currently houses more than 60 dogs, double its intended capacity. "I don’t have the heart to turn away any animal," he revealed, emphasizing their commitment to providing care for as many animals as possible.

The situation is dire, especially for cats, who face additional biases tied to superstition in Nigeria. Mistura Ibrahim, a tattoo artist devoted to cat rescue, has ceased feeding her rescued cats premium food, opting for her own meals to manage costs.

As hearts break and choices become increasingly grave, experts urge society to rethink pet ownership responsibilities. They stress that caring for a pet should be treated with the seriousness of caring for a child: "If you can't afford to have a child, then don't bring a child to the world," Mistura implored. Amid economic turmoil, the plight of Nigeria's pets highlights the urgent need for change and compassion in a time of crisis.