Animal Protection Center in Goyang City (Image courtesy of Goyang City)
GOYANG, Mar. 29 (Korea Bizwire) – Despite various initiatives to promote pet adoption, the animal protection center in Goyang, Gyeonggi Province, is facing challenges due to a prevailing aversion towards mixed-breed dogs, resulting in a declining adoption rate.
According to the center, the number of adopted stray animals has decreased from 487 in 2020 to 496 in 2021, 295 in 2022, and 299 in 2023.
This downward trend is attributed to the increasing proportion of mixed-breed dogs among the abandoned or lost pets brought to the shelter.
“There is a vague fear that mixed-breed dogs might be aggressive or grow excessively large, which leads to a lower adoption rate,” explained Ahn Se-won, head of the animal protection team.
The aversion to mixed-breed dogs has led to overcrowding, with the center currently housing 180 dogs and 50 cats, exceeding its optimal capacity of 150 animals. (Image courtesy of Goyang City)
Established in 2014, the center receives approximately 1,000 stray animals annually, with 20% being returned to their original owners and 30% finding new homes through adoption.
The aversion to mixed-breed dogs has led to overcrowding, with the center currently housing 180 dogs and 50 cats, exceeding its optimal capacity of 150 animals.
While some mixed-breeds involving Korean Jindos may exhibit aggressive tendencies, Ahn noted that most mixed-breed dogs are unlikely to have genetic disorders and are highly intelligent, making it easier for them to adapt to new owners.
In an effort to boost adoption rates, the city plans to construct a dedicated pet adoption center this year and is conducting various promotional activities, including a photo exhibition featuring adopted stray animals.
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
