In Part 1, we defined animal hoarding and gave an overview on why hoarding overwhelms governments, vets, and animal caretakers. In this section, we look at the effect on society.
The ASPCA estimates that 250,000 animals suffer from hoarding every year, with about 3,500 new cases every year. Hoarding causes more injury and death than intentional acts of violence against animals. Every species is represented in hoarding cases, including goats, lizards, horses and rats. However, hoarders do not usually include dog breeders, feral cat caretakers, over the limit pet owners, menageries, legitimate rescue groups, shelters or sanctuaries.
In addition to the animals, hoarding endangers the health and safety of the hoarder and family members. About ¼ of hoarders have family living with the animals. The damage to housing and property can be an environmental disaster, and the strain on local animal welfare agencies is considerable.
Hoarders can be lumped into three broad groups - overwhelmed caregivers, exploiters, and rescue hoarders.
Overwhelmed Caregivers
Hoarding can begin innocently with the best of intentions. For example, someone may begin with rescuing one pregnant cat and end up with many cats because they did not spay or neuter the offspring, allowing the reproductive cycle to repeat . Eventually, the caregiver can no longer keep up with medical needs, feeding and other care. Overwhelmed caregivers may be persuaded to give up animals and may not repeat hoarding.
Exploiters
Exploiters are motivated by money and may be posing as breeders. They will sell some animals but are certain they are providing a service to the animals and society. Exploiters are usually not intimidated by prosecution.
Rescue Hoarders
Rescue hoarders also believe they are providing a service, but may be amenable to a scaled-down operation when threatened with prosecution. Prosecutors may face backlash when charging rescue hoarders, because hoarders are perceived as providing valuable services to their community.