How Oregon Dog Rescue is turning the pandemic into a positive

By Kellen Woodcock ‘21

Despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the Oregon Dog Rescue has been uniting COVID-19 weary humans with excited dogs.

Before the pandemic, the doors of the shelter were open at all times, and families could come in, fall in love with a dog, and leave with the pup on the same day. Now, they have to fill out an application online, get approved, schedule an appointment, and meet with the dog at the shelter in order to take one home. 

Since the pandemic started in March, Oregon Dog Rescue has seen an approximate 20% increase in dogs leaving according to Director Debra Bowen, even with enhanced COVID-19 protocols in place. This, however, is on the low side of what Bowen thinks the actual demand is. 

“If the doors were just open and people could come in, there’d be a 50-100% increase,” Bowen said.

These dogs are also being adopted by different types of people than the type that would typically adopt a dog before, and the volume of applications has rapidly increased. 

“It’s not hard for us to find people wanting to adopt,” explained Bowen, which is echoed by a statement on their website saying they “are receiving an average of 50 applications per dog.” 

She also mentioned how some people’s job’s have permanently changed now, allowing them more time at home and a greater ability to take care of a dog.

“It’s easier for us to match people up with dogs,” said Bowen, “And it’s better for dogs, as they’re getting a better match.” 

With the slowed-down application process, Bowen and her team have had more time to review the influx of applicants and pick the best fits for the dogs and the adopters. 

Increased adoption rates have become a trend throughout the country, with the dogs being affectionately coined “Pandemic Puppies,” representative of the joy and happiness a new dog can bring into someone's life during these unprecedented times. Bowen and the rest of the Oregon Dog Shelter continue to work their hardest to make sure all their furry friends find forever homes.

If you want to learn more about the Oregon Dog Rescue, here is their website.