Economic Hardship Forces Pet Owners in Nigeria to Make Painful Choices

As Nigeria faces soaring inflation and economic challenges, pet owners like Preye Maxwell are increasingly forced to surrender their animals to shelters, unable to afford their care. Animal rights activists and shelter operators report unprecedented numbers of abandoned pets, with many owners struggling to balance their financial responsibilities while caring for their animals.

In Lagos, Nigeria, the emotional toll of economic hardship can be seen through the eyes of pet owners who are increasingly surrendering their beloved companions. Preye Maxwell's heart breaks as he leaves his two-year-old American Eskimo dog, Hanks, at St Mark's Animal Rescue Foundation. “I can’t afford to feed him the way he should be fed,” he reveals, reflecting a painful reality faced by many pet owners in today's inflation-stricken economy.

Since the removal of a long-standing fuel subsidy under President Bola Tinubu's administration, Nigeria has grappled with skyrocketing inflation, which surged to a staggering 35% by December 2024, according to the National Bureau of Statistics. This economic crunch has pushed many young Nigerians, including Maxwell, into a tough job market where survival comes before their pets, leading to heart-wrenching decisions.

Dr. Mark Afua, a veterinarian and chairman of the shelter, reports seeing an alarming rise in animal relinquishments, with around 10 to 12 animals dropping at his facility each month. “Ten years ago, we didn’t have people giving up their dogs,” Dr. Afua laments, emphasizing the drastic shift toward more animals being left behind or abandoned outright.

Jackie Idimogu, president of a dog-lovers' community in Lagos, shares a grim observation: pet owners are becoming increasingly impatient, tying dogs to posts or abandoning them. While Idimogu prioritizes her four dogs — spending more than half her income on their well-being — she recognizes that many cannot maintain such financial commitments.

The rising costs of pet care, including food and veterinary services, have escalated by over 100%, resulting in decisions that some owners find unbearable. Iyke Elueze addresses his 10 dogs' needs amidst rising costs, expressing worry that they could become dog meat due to cultural practices. “I am very careful with who adopts my dogs," he states, fearful for their future if he hands them over.

Meanwhile, tattoo artist Mistura Ibrahim emphasizes the importance of responsible pet ownership, urging would-be owners to consider their financial capacity before bringing animals into their lives. As shelters become overpopulated, Dr. Afua says his team is committed to providing for each animal but is also overwhelmed by the sheer number in need.

In a city where love for animals competes against the harsh realities of economic decline, the stories of pet owners illuminate a broader narrative — one where compassion for animals is challenged by the struggle for survival. While shelters strive to find homes for these abandoned animals, the prevailing question remains: can both pet welfare and economic stability coexist in Nigeria's tumultuous landscape?