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1/29/2004


Media Contact:

Margie Smith-Simmons, [317] 327-1396
mssimmon@indygov.org
City shelter teams up with national corporations to spotlight pet overpopulation


INDIANAPOLIS – Indianapolis Animal Care & Control, Comcast Cable and Pets911 are teaming up to raise awareness during the month of February for national pet overpopulation month, as designated by the Humane Society of the Untied States. Pet owners will be encouraged to spay and neuter their pet(s) during this effort.

In 2003, Indianapolis Animal Care & Control took in 18,209 lost, homeless, abused, and unwanted animals. If statistics from the Humane Society of Indianapolis are included, over 30,000 stray or surrendered animals found their way to Indianapolis shelters, of which the majority is euthanized because there simply aren't enough available homes.

"The numbers are staggering and almost hard to believe. That's why I think it's important for Comcast to help inform and educate the Indianapolis community as well as raise awareness to this important societal issue," said Mark Apple, Director of Corporate Affairs. "Comcast hopes to influence and spur the community to action by spaying and neutering their pets. The pet overpopulation problem in Indianapolis is an issue that needs immediate attention."

"We are pleased to partner with Comcast Cable to help us advocate the importance of spaying and neutering our pets," said Mayor Bart Peterson.

Throughout the month of February, Comcast will regularly air the 30-second public service announcement, "Too Many Kitties in the City," produced for Indianapolis Animal Care & Control by Pets911. Comcast Cable is a proven supporter of animal welfare by providing almost $20,000 worth of free air time to Central Indiana shelters and rescue groups in 2003.

Important facts to know:

  • Every day, 70,000 puppies and kittens are born in this country while only 10,000 people are born every day.
  • In seven years, one female cat and her offspring can theoretically produce 420,000 cats
  • In six years, one female dog and her offspring can theoretically produce 67,000 dogs.
  • Spaying and neutering makes pets better, more affectionate companions.
  • Unsterilized animals often exhibit more behavior and temperament problems than do those who have been spayed or neutered.
  • Spaying and neutering can make pets less likely to bite.
  • Neutering makes pets less likely to roam the neighborhood, run away, or get into fights.

For additional information, including low cost spay/neuter opportunities, please call 317.327.1397.