INDIANAPOLIS -- The City of Indianapolis animal shelter is euthanizing fewer dogs and cats, and more are leaving the facility alive.
The city's live save rate in 2015 was 79 percent, which means most dogs and cats are being adopted or leaving with rescue groups.
The numbers are a huge improvement from 2011 when Indianapolis Animal Care and Control reported a 49 percent live save rate.
IACC live save rates:
- 2015 - 79 percent
- 2014 - 73 percent
- 2013 - 64 percent
- 2012 - 56 percent
- 2011 - 49 percent
IACC euthanization rates:
- 2015 - 2,387
- 2014 - 3,466
- 2013 - 5,216
According to records, nearly 11,000 animals were put down in 2008.
Most of the dogs and cats euthanized at the shelter in 2015 were suffering from illness, although 17 healthy animals have been put down since January 1, 2015.
CALL 6 | City without solution for 'horrible' animal problem
Interim IACC Director, Sgt. Randy Dodd, credits the improved adoption and euthanasia numbers to a variety of reasons including the addition of a full-time veterinarian and two vet techs, adoption specials and an overall effort to improve the shelter's image.
The shelter has new and brighter signage, murals and cages.
"We have improved our curb appeals so people feel more welcome. A lot of people drove by our facility and never even knew what it was," said Dodd.
Tim Kelso and his family adopted a German Shepherd at the shelter Monday. He noticed the improvements.
"It's a lot better than what it was years before. I've been here before and this is a big change compared to what it used to be," said Kelso.
Since 2011, the city has boosted spay and neuter efforts through events likeIndy Mega Adoption.
IACC adoptions:
- 2015 - 2,860
- 2014 - 2,581
- 2013 - 2, 128
IACC also participated in more than 50 community outreach events in 2015.
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