Nearly 18,000 animals found new homes in Flanders in 2023 through Adopteer een Dier, an online platform that compiles adoption listings from 150 recognised shelters across the region, according to figures published by De Zondag.
The website, which serves as a centralised adoption hub, facilitated the adoption of 17,947 animals last year, with kittens being the most sought-after. A total of 12,337 kittens were adopted, making up the vast majority of new placements.
Dogs followed in popularity, with 2,659 finding new homes. Small pets such as rabbits and rodents accounted for 1,612 adoptions, while farm animals—including goats, chickens, and pigs—represented 739 adoptions.
Growing Interest in Pet Adoption
The platform, launched to simplify the adoption process and connect potential pet owners with animals in need, has seen increasing engagement from the public.
The figures suggest a strong interest in pet adoption across Flanders, with many households opting to give shelter animals a second chance rather than purchasing pets from breeders.
Animal welfare organisations have welcomed this trend, noting that adoption from shelters provides abandoned and stray animals with safe, responsible homes.
They also highlight the benefits of adopting rather than buying, as it reduces the demand for commercial breeding, which can sometimes involve unethical practices.
“We are thrilled to see so many animals finding loving families through the platform,” said a spokesperson from Adopteer een Dier. “Every adoption means one less pet in a shelter and a new start for an animal in need.”
More Than 2,350 Animals Still Waiting
Despite last year’s successful adoption numbers, thousands of animals remain in shelters. As of now, more than 2,350 pets are still waiting to be adopted through the website.
Animal welfare groups continue to encourage people to consider adoption, particularly for older animals and those with special needs, which are often overlooked in favour of younger pets.
Many shelters also emphasise the importance of responsible pet ownership, ensuring that adopters understand the long-term commitment required.
Challenges in Adoption
While the adoption numbers are encouraging, shelters in Flanders still face challenges. Overcrowding remains a persistent issue, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic, when many people adopted pets impulsively, only to surrender them later due to changes in their living situations or financial difficulties.
“There are always waves of animals coming in,” explained an animal shelter manager in Antwerp. “People adopt pets when it’s convenient, but some don’t realise the responsibility involved. We see cases of abandonment when owners struggle with behavioural issues or unexpected costs.”
To tackle this, shelters are reinforcing adoption screening processes, ensuring potential pet owners are well-informed and prepared before taking in an animal.
Many shelters also provide post-adoption support, including training advice and veterinary assistance.
Encouraging Continued Adoption
As Flanders continues to promote animal welfare and responsible pet ownership, platforms like Adopteer een Dier play a crucial role in rehoming abandoned animals.
Those looking to adopt a pet can visit www.adopteereendier.be to browse available animals and find more information on adoption requirements.
With thousands of animals still in need of homes, shelters and advocates hope that the adoption trend will continue into 2024, giving more pets the opportunity to find loving families.
