Staff Reports | Free Press Philanthropy
The Arizona Humane Society is reporting an increase in pet intake, with more than 25,000 dogs and cats admitted in 2025, the highest level in more than a decade.
The organization projects intake could reach 28,000 animals in 2026 if current trends continue, driven by factors including reduced access to spay and neuter services during the COVID-19 pandemic, rising veterinary costs and breeding practices, according to a press release.
Veterinary care costs have increased approximately 40%, contributing to more pet surrenders, while limited sterilization services during the pandemic have led to increased shelter populations.
Maricopa County shelters took in about 9,000 pets in 2025.
“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.”
Ms. Siner said expanded spay and neuter efforts are needed to address the issue.
Ms. Siner has pledged $600,000 to launch a spay and neuter initiative and is calling on residents to contribute. She will match donations of $1,000 or more, up to a total of $600,000.
“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.”
The initiative will focus on dogs weighing 40 pounds or more in ZIP codes with lower sterilization rates. Qualified pet owners will receive free spay and neuter vouchers.
“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, vice president of development for the Arizona Humane Society. “Ann has generously supported us and spay/neuter programs for over 30 years in the Valley. Her commitment to animals is inspiring.”
Ms. Martich said the campaign aims to address the root causes of pet overpopulation.
