Gwinnett Shelter Succeeds in Increasing Adoptions, Reducing Euthanasia

Gwinnett County Animal Welfare and Enforcement Services have undertaken several initiatives with the goal of increasing adoptions and reducing euthanasia.  2012 saw the first time in the department’s history that the number of animals saved was greater than the number of animals euthanized (the number saved includes adoptions, rescues, and pets reclaimed by owners).

This positive change can be attributed to several factors including a more robust volunteer program, a new partnership with Homeless Pet Clubs, an improved rescue group outreach program, and an increased number of special adoption events both at the shelter and in the community, classes for pets and owners, and public education efforts.

While these numbers are encouraging, we still have a long way to go to meet our ultimate goal of having every adoptable pet that enters the shelter placed in a home.  This goal depends upon the help and cooperation of Gwinnett County citizens.  To help us in this effort or for more information on adopting a pet, please visit the shelter’s webpage at www.gwinnettanimalcontrol.com.

The table below indicates the number of animals euthanized and saved for the past five years.

Year     Euthanized     Saved

2012     3,781              4,543

2011     4,128              4,105

2010     5,882              3,570

2009     7,850              4,091

2008     7,434              4,054

(Contributed by Gwinnett County Police Department)