A Call to legal Action

fix to save - chicago’s Animal Overpopulation Crisis

Euthanasia is rising. Shelter intake is out of control. And it’s only getting worse. We must act now to stop the cycle of suffering.

Intake Trends & Euthanasia Spike

Shelter Intakes Are Surging & Euthanasia Rates Are Climbing

  • Intake increased by 26% from 2022–2023

  • Euthanasia went up by 34% from 2022–2024

  • In April 2025, they averaged 54 intakes per day (≈1,620 that month)  

  • May 2025 saw an average of 56 intakes per day  

  • Earlier in 2025 (March), lines formed daily—owners surrendering dozens of dogs and cats per morning  

Why Spay/Neuter + TNR Matter

Spay/Neuter Saves Lives

  • Reduces shelter intake and spread of disease

  • Prevents unwanted behaviors and accidental litters

  • TNR stabilizes stray cat populations

  • Cities like LA & NYC have seen measurable results

Backyard Breeding Exacerbates the Crisis

The Unregulated Pipeline into Shelters

Unlicensed “backyard breeders” often produce puppies without health screening, vaccination, or placement vetting.

These animals eventually enter public shelters when breeders are overwhelmed or stop caring—adding directly to CACC’s growing intake.

The Financial & Moral Case

Prevention is More Affordable—and Humane

  • Spay/neuter cost per animal: ~$75–$200

  • Euthanasia cost per animal: ~$250+ (medical care, staffing, disposal)

Preventing one accidental litter saves money, generates fewer shelter operations costs, and avoids heartbreak. Euthanasia, by contrast, is both costly and ethically fraught.

What Must Be Done

A Roadmap for Change

  • Expand access to free or low-cost spay/neuter and TNR services in underserved neighborhoods

  • Launch a city-wide public education campaign—led by MCP Rescue—about responsible pet ownership and breeder accountability

  • Enact and enforce a ban on backyard breeding, with licensing, inspections, and fines

  • Strengthen rescue and foster networks to reduce shelter strain

  • Go the legislative route and push for an ordinance passed to hold back yard breeders accountable and responsible

Be Their Voice—Take Action Now

Overwhelmed shelters. Rising euthanasia. Chicago’s animals need you.

Chicago's shelter system is overwhelmed. Every single day, more than 50 dogs and cats enter city facilities—many never leave.

The crisis is fueled by unregulated backyard breeding, limited access to spay/neuter services, and a lack of public awareness. But we can change that—with your voice.

Add your name to demand action from city leaders:

  • Expand free and low-cost spay/neuter programs

  • Ban backyard breeding and enforce licensing

  • Launch a public education campaign about responsible pet ownership

Together, we can push for policies that protect animals and reduce euthanasia—permanently.