1. Presented by Crystal Munnis David Comita Jaslyn Moore

2. Introduction Analysis of literature reviewed led to a study to determine the notions, behaviors, assumptions, and knowledge of pet owners. Our hypothesis was that people were not aware and utilizing the outlets available to them and their pets. The results from the study proved our hypothesis to be true in that people were not receiving education, knowledge, and information from reputable sources.

3. Executive Summary Key Concepts: Hypothesis: People were not aware and utilizing the outlets available to them and their pets. Abandoned Animals: Some have behavior issues, been subjected to cruelty or just left behind. Reproduction of Animals: Animals are not getting spayed/neutered at an early age Adoption of Animals: Finding loving homes for those who have been abandoned

4. MSPCA Programs ∙ Cruelty Prevention ∙ Animal Protection & Legislation ∙ Dog Training ∙ Equine Safety & Ambulance ∙ Spay/Neuter Program ∙ Blood Donor Program ∙ Boston Spay/Neuter Clinic ∙ Cat Campaign, Humane Education ∙ Pet Care Assistance ∙ Pet Owner Resources ∙ Wildlife Resources ∙ Hillside Acre Animal Cemetery

5. Our Focus ∙ To raise awareness of the programs offered by the MSPCA Boston ∙ To find animals loving homes ∙ To decrease the abandonment of animals ∙ Rise attentiveness of low cost spay/neutering programs offered

6. The Survey

7. The Results

13. MSPCA Website

15. Conclusion The results show that most people in the sample survey had little if any knowledge about the MSPCA, their services, knowledge, quality, and efforts for finding homes for abandoned animals. The preconceived notion about shelters is that they are dirty, unfit, of low quality and less reputable than a breeder or pet store. Slightly over half the sample surveyed was aware of an animal shelter in their area. Only 19% knew that purchasing an animal from the MSPCA is significantly lower than purchasing a pet and giving it care from elsewhere.

16. Summary The MSCPA has many outlets to helping pet owners, families and their pets live happier lives and decrease the abandonment of their animals in times of economic and financial crisis. Conditions at the MSPCA are clean, sterile, bright and welcoming to those looking to adopt. There are special rooms and proceedings so that each animal gets the care it needs (including several walks, playtime, and attention) throughout the day. Animal care technicians and volunteers work around the clock to clean, facilitate and accommodate pets and their needs.

17. The Solution Through a variety of different networks, we propose that the MSPCA team up with local pet stores, schools and work places to offer free seminars/classes to allow the spread of information and knowledge about their programs offered. To raise the standards we recommend that the MSPCA offer free tours of their facility so that word of mouth will travel to those looking to adopt. Teaming up with colleges that allow community “work study” programs.