Rachael Ray, ASPCA Launch Challenge to Increase Pet Adoption

TV personality Rachael Ray appeared on “Good Morning America” today to talk about an effort that is close to her heart.

Ray, who hosts the talk and cooking show “Rachael Ray Show” on ABC, launched the 2012 ASPCA Rachael Ray $100K challenge, in which 50 competing shelters across the country will work increase pet adoption, thereby saving the lives of numerous companion animals.

Click HERE to visit the ASPCA and learn more about the challenge.

The ASPCA is the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

Shelters participating in the challenge will try to save 300 animals more in August, September and October than they did during the same period last year.

The shelters will hold adoption drives and creative promotions in order to reach their goal.

The challenge is being funded through proceeds from the sale of Nutrish, Ray’s brand of premium dog food.

The grand prize is $100,000. More than $500,000 in grant funding and other prizes will also be awarded.

According to the ASPCA, between five and seven million companion animals enter shelters every year. Three to four million of them are euthanized due to a lack of space or resources.