“New York City is facing a growing pet affordability crisis, one that is threatening to get worse,” writes Will Zweigart, director of the nonprofit Flatbush Cats. “Mayor Mamdani has an opportunity to make affordable vet care for all New Yorkers part of his affordability platform.”
Like many New Yorkers, Mayor Zohran Mamdani is currently undergoing allergy shots to bring a new feline family member into their new home. However, more than the exciting prospect of having animal lovers in Gracie Mansion, what New Yorkers actually need are staunch advocates to deal with an underlooked but critical aspect of the affordability crisis: New Yorkers can’t afford their pets.
New York City is facing a growing pet affordability crisis, one that is threatening to get worse. Already, millions of New Yorkers can’t afford basic veterinary care, driven by a broader housing and cost-of-living crisis which the mayor made the centerpiece of his campaign. Taken together, it’s no surprise that 50 percent of New Yorkers can’t afford a pet.
Shelters are overwhelmed by animals looking for homes, and the crush is not easing. New York spends far less on pet care than other cities: about $2.89 per resident, compared to $13.70 in Miami, and $14.78 in Dallas. The good news is, we know how to tackle this issue…