FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:    Ria Brown, Animal Services
                          432-2090, ext. 241

Lee County, Florida, January 18, 2002—

Lee County Animal Services set a new record for animal adoptions in 2001 – increasing the number by 28 percent from the prior year, according to annual statistics released today by the division.

In addition, while the agency took in six percent more animals in 2001, euthanasia increased only one percent and actually decreased five points as a percentage of animals taken in.

And to top off the remarkable year, the division saw a nearly 10 percent increase in animals returned to their owners (see detailed statistics below).

Since mid-July Animal Services staff members through participation in the overall improvement process have helped generate increased revenues and higher adoption rates. Scott Trebatoski, director of Animal Services explained, "Our staff is among the best in the state and allowing them to provide valuable input and to do the right thing has really paid great dividends. And the numbers illustrate our commitment to best practices and innovation."

Last year Animal Services saw an increase in revenues of nearly $79,000—with the largest increases in donations, adoption revenues, and license sales. The increases were due in great part to innovative changes in operations and the dedication of staff. Two major adoption pushes in October and December represented a substantial increase in adoptions—nearly doubling the numbers from same period last year. Donations in the second half of 2001 rose an unprecedented $7,136, which is a 344% increase over the previous year. Trebatoski noted, "These are remarkable numbers considering the decreases in donations reported elsewhere. It is a true testament to the quality and dedication of our staff and the support coming from the community."

The total number of animals sheltered in 2001 was 11,301. Of that number, 2219 animals were adopted (1450 dogs, 670 cats and 129 other) while 983 animals were returned to their owners (918 dogs, 58 cats and 7 other).