Fewer Animals Euthanized at Gwinnett County Shelter

Authorities at the Gwinnett County Animal Shelter say a concerted effort to make improvements at the shelter are having positive results. Euthanasia is down, and more animals are being place in permanent homes. According to a press release, the following statistics were reported at the last meeting of the Animal Advisory Council Oct. 18 on improvements in 2011 over 2010:

• The shelter has taken in 167 more dogs and 1,000 fewer cats. 
• The shelter has had 191 more adoptions (16 percent increase),
• 198 more animals were reclaimed by their owners (28 percent increase)
• 31 more animals were sent to independent rescue groups (4 percent increase)
• 543 fewer dogs were euthanized (27 percent decrease)
• 1,089 fewer cats euthanized (40 percent decrease)

Officials attribute these successes to several factors, including new programs such as C.L.A.S.S. (Canine Life and Social Skills), which trains shelter dogs in basic skills to make them more appealing to potential adopters. Another is the Petco Adoption Partnership, which helps place cats and kittens in homes. There are 30 active volunteers working in the shelter at various jobs including kennel assistance, office assistance, greeting and general assistance to visitors and dog training. Credit is also given to positive media reports on the various programs, which have helped attract families to the shelter when seeking a new pet.

For more information on the shelter, pet adoption, and volunteer opportunities, visit the Gwinnett County website.