NPR At the start of the pandemic, local animal shelters saw an uptick in homebodies adopting cats and dogs. With more time at home, people felt it was the ideal time to add a new member to the household. Thinking Of Returning A Pandemic Pet To A Shelter? Consider These Remedies First Listen for tips on helping your pest adjust to changes brought on by the pandemic. Listen • 10:49 Pets provide something for a family or an individual to care for and can be a source of fun and pleasurable activity. They’re also a source of constancy and comfort during frightening times.