• Approximately 8-12 million companion animals enter shelters nationwide every year and approximately 5-9 million are euthanized (60% of dogs and 70% of cats).
• There are only about 5000 community animal shelters nationwide that are independent.
• The average number of litters a fertile cat produces is one to two a year; average number of kittens in litters is 4-6. The average number of litters a fertile dog produces is one a year; average number of puppies is 4-6.
• It is impossible to determine how many stray dogs and cats live in the US; estimates for stray cats alone range up to 70 million.
• Animal cruelty and neglect is punishable by law. Laws vary from state to state and charges can range from a misdemeanor to a felony if the perpetrator is found guilty.
