When the pet population of San Diego County as a whole, and the animal population of the shelters are examined, the "problem" areas become clear.

Animals are euthanized in the shelters, that much is true. But dogs and cats are brought to the shelters for various reasons. They are euthanized for various reasons. Dogs and cats are euthanized at different rates, with cats being euthanized in far greater numbers.

This survey has shown the overwhelming number of owned pets, especially cats, are spayed or neutered. Lost, owned pets make up a tiny percentage of animals handled. Purebred cats are owned, and bred, by very few people. Purebred dogs have available homes and are under represented in the shelters when compared to their numbers in the owned pet population. Stray dogs are few due to stringent, enforced leash laws.

There will always be some animals euthanized in shelters. Animals too sick and injured to be treated will always be present, as will owner surrendered animals for humane euthanasia. Animals too young to survive without extensive, and expensive, hand-rearing will also generally need to be "put down" given realistic shelter budgets.

The general problem can be stated, "How can San Diego County reduce the number of animals euthanized at its shelters?" More specific aspects of this general problem can be identified as follows:

Roaming Cats

The major animal problem that exists in San Diego County is the unowned, roaming cat population. With over a third of the known cat population being unowned, roaming, free breeding cats, and with the vast majority of animals being euthanized at the shelters being unowned cats, the direct cause and effect link is apparent.

Problem statement: How can San Diego County reduce its roaming cat population effectively and humanely?

Litters prior to spay

While SDC has a high percentage of altered pets, this survey also pointed out that (like other areas of the country) many of these cats had litters prior to their spay. These litters also contribute to the cat populations in the shelters.

Problem statement: How can San Diego County prevent the unplanned litters of owned pets?

Homes available for pet ownership

This survey revealed that most pet owners own their homes, while relatively few renters own dogs or cats. If more people are available to own pets, the numbers of animals adopted from shelters would increase (thus decreasing euthanasias).

Problem statement: How can San Diego County increase the number of pet owning households?