The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is giving more than $250,000 to nearly 100 animal welfare organizations, including one in San Diego, to help launch local "Adoption Ambassadors" programs.
The San Diego Humane Society will receive $2,500 to start the program, which allows people with foster pets to seek out permanent homes for the animals, process adoption applications and handle fees.
"The Adoption Ambassadors program leverages peoples' personal connection with their communities to put more vulnerable animals into safe and loving homes," said ASPCA President and CEO Matt Bershadker. "When foster volunteers are encouraged and empowered to promote their animals and complete the process of adoption themselves, it dramatically increases the animals' chances for successful placement."
B.J. Rogers, an ASPCA vice president, said the program could increase capacity at local shelters, reduce overcrowding of animals and find new markets of potential adopters.
"Our research has shown that adopters who obtained their pets from adoption ambassadors were less likely to have adopted from shelters in the past," Rogers said. "Finding innovative ways to reach these untapped audiences is critical."
ASPCA officials said the funding will enable participating shelters to purchase tools and supplies like food, litter and other supplies for their fosters; marketing expenses to promote the program; and supplies to increase exposure, such as "Adopt Me" vests, leashes, and t-shirts.
