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The National Council argues that the benefits of good statistics outweigh the hassle of keeping records.
Reprinted from Council Companion: The Newsletter of the National Council on Pet Population Study & Policy, Spring 2000.
Why should you keep track of the number of animals that your organization handles each year? We've heard the complaints. "That's a lot of paperwork and requires a time investment. Besides, it can be confusing." However, the National Council believes you should make an effort because the benefits of good statistics far outweigh the hassle of keeping records.
The concept that "the work is not done until the paperwork is completed" has an impact on animal shelters just as in any other business. And, animal sheltering is a business whether it is nonprofit or governmental.
'What' you do is important, and it need not be overshadowed by 'how much' you do. Quality is more important than quantity. Therefore, you can and should use numbers to improve the quality of your work.
Both large and small organizations benefit from keeping accurate statistics on every aspect of their work. Numbers tell people who you are and what you are up against. The National Council believes that keeping statistics helps in the following ways:
Accountability. Numbers will justify your existence to a Board of Directors, government entities, and the general public. You know you are productive, but they must know that as well.
Liability. Proper record keeping will show that you kept each animal the legally required time.
Public Image. Numbers will increase public awareness of the magnitude of your mission. Numbers also help you convey the results of your efforts.
Budgeting/Fundraising. A good budgeting process requires statistics to identify needs. Numbers also assist in planning for the future and paint pictures that open pocketbooks for donations.
Program Evaluation and Planning. Statistics uncover both strengths and weaknesses in programs, procedures, and strategies. Plus, statistical analysis assists in the design of future programs, and comparison of statistics helps define animal population trends (local, regional, and national).
The National Council recommends that at minimum shelters track these statistics:
Number of animals, according to entry:
A. Species
-Dogs
-Cats
-Other
B. Method of Entry (Where did they come from?)
-Owner surrendered
-Running-at-large/stray
-Transfers
-Owner-requested euthanasia
-Other
Number of animals, according to disposition:
C. Method of Disposition (What happened to them?)
-Returned to owner
-Placed/adopted
-Euthanized
-Transferred (animals transferred to other shelters, organizations, institutions)
-Released to wild (applicable to wildlife only)
-Other
To receive basic statistics tracking forms to copy and use in your shelter, send a self-addressed, stamped business-sized envelope, along with your request, to NCPPSP, PO Box 341, New London, MN 56273, ATTN: Stats Forms.
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