Americans love their pets — dogs, cats, birds, fish and beyond.
Two-thirds of Americans own a pet and will spend a projected $157 billion on them this year, according to the American Pet Products Association.
Pet spending is up 62% from 2019 — before the pandemic, ensuing inflation, and the scores of adoptions that happened during shutdowns and remote work and schools.
Robin Ganzert
Five years after the pandemic, there are new landscapes and challenges for pets and animal welfare.
No one knows that better than Robin Ganzert.
She is the president and CEO of American Humane Society, one of the largest animal welfare groups in the country.
We caught up with Ganzert on the current state of animal welfare, her top concerns, and issues AHS would like addressed by the Trump administration and Congress, as well as the impacts of climate change and extreme weather events.
We also asked Ganzert for her top advice for pet owners.
We are five years after the start of the pandemic, and many people adopted new pets during the shutdowns, etc. What is the current landscape for pets in America? How are you working on that front?
Ganzert: Since the pandemic, millions of cats and dogs have found forever homes with loving families. But animals still face huge challenges, and American Humane Society is working hard to lend a hand. Last year, for example, our rescue team helped feed, care for and shelter more than 85,000 animals in the wake of devastating natural disasters. American Humane Society also continues to pair service dogs with veterans experiencing post-traumatic stress or traumatic brain injury.
American spending on pets is projected to hit $200 billion annually by 2030, according to an analysis by Capital One.
What is the current landscape for animal welfare in general? What are your major concerns on this front, and what are areas you are more positive about?
Ganzert: American Humane Society helps animals whenever and wherever they are in need — including on farms, at modern zoos and aquariums, on Hollywood movie sets and following natural disasters. We have made a lot of progress over the years, but there is always room to help even more animals.
This is especially critical in today’s uncertain times, as the world faces the sixth mass extinction. Now, more than ever, we must be a voice for the voiceless. This past year, we released our second documentary, "Escape From Extinction: Rewilding," narrated by Meryl Streep. The film explores innovative conservation efforts — from rewilding techniques to bioengineering breakthroughs — while also highlighting simple actions people can take at home to make a difference.
What kind of actions would you like to see from the Trump administration?
Ganzert: During his first term, President Trump signed landmark legislation into law that established a new nationwide standard for preventing animal abuse. The White House has an opportunity to build upon this legacy.
For one, President Trump can direct federal government agencies to halt all unnecessary taxpayer-funded animal testing. Secondly, the Trump administration can improve the lives of farm animals by encouraging more agricultural businesses to seek out independent, science-based humane inspections of their facilities. This could include directing federal agencies to acquire humane-certified protein for their food supply chains.
What tops your agenda for Congress, for states and communities?
Ganzert: This session, Congress should work to advance the humane treatment of animals across the country. One opportunity is to include a “humane tax credit” for responsible farmers who seek out independent, science-based humane inspections of their facilities in the upcoming budget reconciliation package. They can also work to create grant programs to help zoos and aquariums conduct important conservation work – such as the proposed Sea Turtle Rescue Assistance and Rehabilitation Act – and pass legislation that would allow Americans to use tax-advantaged health savings accounts to pay for pet insurance or veterinary care.
Two-thirds of Americans own pets.
How much are climate change and extreme weather impacting animal welfare?
Ganzert: The impacts of extreme weather and other natural disasters — including hurricanes, tornadoes and wildfires — are not limited to people. Animals face the consequences, as well. That’s why the work of the American Humane rescue team is more critical now than ever. Last year, the rescue team helped feed, care for and shelter more than 85,000 animals in the wake of devastating natural disasters.
Can you talk about what you all are up to this year, including your international/global efforts?
Ganzert: American Humane Society is expanding our work to help animals around the world through our international arm, Global Humane Society, which now certifies more than 85 zoological facilities across 18 countries. One of our programs, the Global Humane Conservation Fund of Africa, is working with partners across Southern Africa to rewild animals, expand space for endangered species, combat the effects of droughts by supporting water access, creating more watering holes and much more.
Who and what inspires you?
Ganzert: My mother has always been my greatest source of inspiration, nurturing a profound love for animals that has guided my life’s work. Every day, I draw inspiration from the incredible animals we strive to protect — their resilience, grace and the deep connections they form with us.
There are 89.7 million dogs and 73.8 million cats in the U.S., according to the American Veterinary Medical Association.
What about your job would surprise most people?
Ganzert: Many people may be surprised by how much of our work happens behind the scenes in Congress, shaping policies that protect animals on a national scale. A great example is the Working Dog Health and Welfare Act — legislation we championed to ensure over 5,500 federal working dogs receive the care they deserve. Thanks to our advocacy, including bringing our Hero Dog Awards winners to Capitol Hill, we helped drive bipartisan support for this vital law, which was signed by President Biden. It’s proof that meaningful change for animals happens not just in rescue missions, but also in policy rooms where their voices need to be heard.
How many pets do you have?
Ganzert: I have four beloved pets who bring so much joy to my life! There’s Julius Caesar, my regal and dignified cat; Boomer, my playful and affectionate dog; and my two little ones, (dogs) Daisy and Darcy, who are as sweet as they are spoiled! They are all part of my family, and I couldn’t imagine life without them.
Robin Ganzert is president and CEO of the American Humane Society.
What's your top piece of advice to pet owners?
Ganzert: One of the most important things I tell pet owners is to always be prepared for the unexpected — because when disaster strikes, every second counts. Our beloved animals depend on us, and having a well-thought-out emergency plan can mean the difference between safety and tragedy. Make sure your pets are microchipped or have ID tags with up-to-date information. Have an emergency kit ready with food, water and any medications they might need. And most importantly, never leave your pets behind — if you have to evacuate, take them with you. A little preparation today can save lives tomorrow.
