You will be providing monthly summary data to The National Database using the Basic Data Matrix. This includes information the species you manage, broken out by age category, intake and outcome information, and facility-specific data.
Shelter Animals Count provides the specific definitions for each category and data point, eliminating ambiguity and ensuring consistency if data is rolled up beyond the local level. When you first register, we ask you provide monthly data beginning with the previous month. You are also able to enter historical data as far back as 2011, if you have that data available.
The Basic Data Matrix is intentionally basic in its effort to provide a common framework for data collection whether organizations already gather a great deal of data or have only gathered the basics. Shelter Animals Count is exploring additional data collection means that would further benefit the animal welfare community.