As financial pressure grows, local shelters adapt with food pantries, matchmaking and waived adoption fees.
At the Escambia County Animal Shelter, Jennifer Tanner and her two children came hoping to adopt a cat. But rising veterinary costs gave her pause.
“Everywhere I call, it’s gonna cost me $120 for the visit and rabies,” she said, holding the phone while talking to her husband, who had final approval. Her daughter, Julia Johnston, pointed excitedly to a nearby cage…