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May 3, 2013

HSUS Pet Overpopulation Estimates

The Humane Society of the United States

Estimated number of cats and dogs entering shelters each year:

6-8 million )

Estimated number of healthy, adoptable cats and dogs euthanized by shelters each year*:

2.7 million

Estimated number of cats and dogs adopted from shelters each year:

3-4 million

Estimated number of cats and dogs reclaimed by owners from shelters each year:

30 percent of dogs and 2-5 percent of cats entering shelters

Estimated number of animal shelters in the United States:

3,500

Estimated percent of dogs in shelters who are purebred:

25 percent

 * Around .75 million dogs and cats classified as "unadoptable" are euthanized annually for reasons such as illness, aggression, and owner request.

Unless otherwise indicated, the above figures were estimated by The HSUS based on statistics provided by The National Council on Pet Population, Study and Policy.