Are fewer animals coming into the shelter?
Yes. Multnomah County Animal Services, along with our Animal Shelter Partner Alliance of Portland (ASAP) partner agencies, have experienced a significant decrease in the number of animals (dogs and cats) admitted to our shelters from the public. This decrease is the result of strategic long-term planning and implementation to improve the lives of the animals in this region; increase the number of adoptable animals placed in the community; and provide subsidized spay & neuter surgeries for companion pets to decrease the number of unwanted animals.
How have the numbers changed?
As of December 2017, there has been a
o 94.7% Live Release Rate increase from 61.5% in 2006
o 50.4% decrease in public animal intake to shelters since 2006 (2006 = 37,283 v 2017 = 18,489)
o 46.8% decrease in public cat intake since 2010 when Spay and Save program began (2010 = 19,615 v 2017 =10,424)
As fewer animals have needed shelter, the length of stay and comprehensive quality of care they receive has increased. This correlates with the county's live-release rate and the care required to achieve it.
Is Multnomah County investing more in Animal Services than ever?
Yes. Since 2008, Multnomah County has increased its budget 70% to improve operations, health care and foster care. The increase also aligns with the Multnomah County Auditor’s 2016 recommendation to invest more and includes critical organizational changes — including expanded hospital staff and the creation of foster care. The increase also includes normal inflationary impacts associated with labor, material and supplies and County internal service support costs.