05/31/2026
The ASPCA is known for those heartbreaking sad-dog commercials with Sarah McLachlan playing in the background, but what do they actually spend the money on? In 2024, the ASPCA reported $446 million in total revenue. They spent about $153 million on salaries, compensation, and employee benefits, and about $79.6 million on fundraising expenses. Meanwhile, their tax filing shows $23.3 million in grants and similar amounts paid out. That means 95% of their spending is on salaries and raising money and 5% of what they brought in is given to projects. Only a small fraction of that 5% went to animal shelters most people think they are helping.
The ASPCA is also an anti hunting organization. ASPCA’s own policy says it opposes sport hunting (whatever that is), even when the animal is eaten. So when people see the sad dog commercials and think their money is going straight to the local shelter down the road, that is not how this works. This is a massive national fundraising machine with anti-hunting policy positions, and before people donate, they should probably understand where the money is actually going.
— Stephen Ziegler
Outdoor writer | Owner, DeLong Lures
