Animal welfare advocates are being urged to redirect their charitable donations this November towards local shelters rather than national organizations, which may not allocate funds effectively. According to Jack Hubbard, Executive Director of the Center for the Environment and Welfare in Arlington, Virginia, many well-known national groups, including the ASPCA and Humane World for Animals, are not affiliated with local humane societies or SPCAs.
Research into public tax records reveals that these organizations contribute only about 1% of their annual budgets to local shelters through financial grants. Despite raising hundreds of millions of dollars each year, their limited financial support is concerning, especially in light of the ongoing euthanasia crisis in the United States. In 2024, more than 600,000 cats and dogs were euthanized in animal shelters, largely due to insufficient resources.
Hubbard emphasizes the need for potential donors to carefully consider where their contributions go. The financial practices of national organizations raise questions about their priorities, particularly when the head of the ASPCA reportedly earns over $1.2 million.
With the demand for funding local shelters reaching critical levels, Hubbard advises that donors focus their efforts on local facilities that directly impact the lives of homeless pets. “If you want to help save the lives of homeless pets this giving season, skip these two national organizations and donate to your local shelter instead,” he stated.
As the holiday season approaches, animal lovers are encouraged to take action that will have a tangible effect on their communities. By prioritizing local shelters, donors can contribute to a more sustainable and humane approach to animal care and welfare.
