“Let’s get some Animals Adopted!” Service Learning Project Spring 2010 Kari Fransen and Robyn Gangl

Companion Animals in the United States About 63 percent of all households in the United States have a pet. (Source: American Veterinary Medical Association) About 75 million dogs and about 85 million cats are owned in the United States. (Source: Pet Food Institute) At least 20 percent of cats are acquired as strays. (Source: NCPPSP) The majority of pets are obtained from acquaintances and family members. (Source: Ralston Purina and NCPPSP)

“The Pound” Approximately 5 to 7 million companion animals enter animal shelters nationwide every year Less than 2 percent of cats and only 15 to 20 percent of dogs are returned to their owners. Approximately 3 to 4 million are euthanized (60 percent of dogs and 70 percent of cats) Shelter intakes are about evenly divided between animals relinquished by owners and picked up by animal control. Twenty-five percent of dogs who enter local shelters are purebred. (Source: NCPPSP) Only 10 percent have been spayed or neutered

Animal Abuse In 2009, Minnesota had 13 animal abuse cases Animal Abuse is typically an indicator of domestic violence later in life Most animal abuse cases are reported by neighbors About 500,000 horses are exported from the US annually for slaughter – typically picked up at auction In 2000 approximately 7,600 greyhound puppies deemed not fast enough to race were killed, as were an estimated 11,400 "retired" dogs.

Our project Help prepare an animal for adoption/ Create a brochure for the future owner Include: - animal’s breed/species information - photo of animal (higher quality photos increase chances of internet traffic leading to adoption) -Information about adequate care (feed, exercise, housing, veterinary needs) -Personal information about that particular animal (What was its life like? Was it found wandering? Had it had a litter? )

Reflective Essay Write a 3-4 page essay about your experience Include: - What were you able to accomplish? - What kind of home you think would be best for this animal. - Do you think this animal will be adopted? - Why is it important to volunteer for animals? What will you do to help animals in the future?