A Stanton Foundation-funded survey that aims to compile data about dog populations in shelters located in key geographic regions across the U.S. is underway at the Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine with the goal of determining the number and physical characteristics of dogs entering shelters, as well as the eventual outcome of their shelter stays. “The lack of reliable data makes it difficult to most effectively serve and help dogs in need,” said Kent H. Hoblet, DVM, MSc, dean of MSU’s College of Veterinary Medicine. “This survey will ultimately enable organizations that seek to promote canine welfare to help the greatest number of dogs. The information will be beneficial to shelter operators, policymakers, and ultimately dog owners across the nation because it will provide vital insights into patterns and behaviors regarding dog ownership, adoption, transfers, outcomes, and resource distribution.” The research team will connect with more than 400 participating shelters in Mississippi, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Colorado, and Oklahoma. These states were chosen because they each have a registry of shelters and provide a diverse geographical representation of the U.S. “People in all regions of the country care very much about canine welfare, and we believe that this study will help dog owners, elected and appointed officials, and shelter operators make informed decisions,” said Dr. Hoblet. “We appreciate the shelters that are partnering with us to help us acquire this data and are looking forward to working with them.”
