Chicago is on track to surpass last year’s record high euthanasia rates.

The city's shelter has seen a 24% increase in the first five months of 2024.

That’s according to city data, which also shows euthanasia rates have increased every year since 2021.

Advocates said a rise of intakes and a lack of adoption are contributing to the issue.

Heather Owen is the executive director and co-founder of One Tail at a Time, a nonprofit focused on placing surrendered pets into foster homes until they are adopted. She said housing issues are a leading cause of people deciding to give up their pet.

“If we address things like having affordable, safe housing that people can go, that does not discriminate against pets, then we would see a big decline in people surrendering their pets,” Owen said. “We also see a lot of people come to animal control who need help caring for them, whether it be veterinary bills, or needing help with food.”

Owen added there are many groups like One Tail at a Time that can offer assistance to pet owners who may be struggling.

With summer approaching, shelters can also see increased intake during this time. To prepare, Owen said shelters are working to also increase adoption rates.

“We try to make it as easy as possible,” Owen said. “And I think that’s our part. Everyone has to do their part. So, rescues, shelters should make it as easy as possible. So if you come to One Tail at a Time, it is so easy. You can look at the animal, same day you can go home with an animal that day. We’ll match you up with a dog or a cat or a critter that’s right for your family.”

In the end, Owen said this also helps decrease the need for euthanasia — the end goal for shelters across the city.