Shelters and rescues often list dogs for adoption on platforms like Adoptapet.com, hoping to connect with potential adopters. Understanding the role of breed labels in these listings can significantly impact the visibility and success of adoptions from these online listings. Here's why breed labels matter online:
1. Improved Search Results
Potential adopters on Adopt a Pet use search filters to find the perfect pet. While only 38% initially search for specific breeds, this percentage rises to 60% as they narrow down their preferences. The breed label allows for your pets to show up in these searches.
2. New Pet Alerts
New Pet Alerts, where pet seekers receive emails when matching pets are added to our website, are another key way to reach potential adopters. 60% of these alerts are created with a specific breed or breeds included. Breed labels allow your pets to show up in these personalized notifications.
3. The Most-Searched Breeds
Understanding which dog breeds are most popular in website searches can help increase the understanding of how labeling choices impacts how frequent your pets are seen. Breed labels can be viewed as proxies for size, simplifying the search process. See the top 20 most-searched-for dog breeds here.
4. Breed Labels Impact
Removing breed labels online can have varying impacts on different breeds, especially the top 10 most-searched ones. For example, reclassifying American Pit Bull Terriers as "Mixed Breed" makes them invisible to potential adopters searching specifically for that breed. American Pit Bull Terrier searches may represent just 2% of all searches nationwide but for a bit a perspective, they account for 40,000 annual searches in Kentucky alone.
5. The Value of In-Person Communication
Removing breed labels in the shelter is a different matter altogether. In a face-to-face setting, staff or volunteers can engage with adopters, discussing their needs and preferences. Observed pet behavior and personality indicators can be more influential in guiding an in-person adoption process.
6. The DNA Factor
Studies have shown that DNA tests can increase adoption rates. While it's not solely about breed labels, knowing a pet's breed mix will positively influence adoption outcomes. Consider funding DNA tests for mixed-breed pets or those in your care for extended periods.
Breed labels play a key role in getting your pets in front of potential adopters who are searching online. They serve as vital search criteria and can bring more visibility to the not only the individual pets in your care but also to your organization, particularly when coupled with in-person conversations and the potential of DNA testing.