The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) stands as one of the most trusted nonprofit organizations dedicated to protecting animals from abuse and neglect. At the helm of this organization is Mathew E. Bershadker, whose leadership since 2013 has significantly shaped its success and reach.
This article delves into the details of the ASPCA CEO’s salary, the organization’s services, and its mission. You’ll also gain insights into its operational structure, employee compensation, and the profound impact ASPCA has had on animal welfare across the United States.
The ASPCA CEO salary
Mathew E. Bershadker, the CEO and President of the ASPCA, has been at the forefront of the organization’s efforts to prevent animal cruelty since 2013. His leadership comes with a substantial compensation package, reflective of the scale and impact of his responsibilities.
Here’s a breakdown of his 2025 estimated salary and benefits:
- Base Salary: $750,000 annually.
This fixed salary forms the foundation of Bershadker’s compensation. - Bonuses and Incentives: $276,000.
These performance-based bonuses are tied to the organization’s operational and financial outcomes. - Other Benefits: $47,859.
This includes healthcare, retirement contributions, and other perks provided as part of the compensation package.
Comparison with ASPCA Employees
While the CEO’s earnings are significant, they stand in contrast to the hourly wages of the organization’s employees:
- Animal Care Technicians: $13/hour
- Veterinary Technicians: $20/hour
- Nursery Caregivers: $14/hour
- Administrative Assistants: $23–$25/hour
- Transport Roles: $19–$29/hour
Despite the differences, the ASPCA maintains competitive pay standards for a nonprofit organization, ensuring fair wages for its employees while directing 80% of its donations toward animal care.
Organizational Revenue
The ASPCA generates approximately $273 million in annual assets, enabling the CEO’s compensation and operational funding for its numerous programs. While some may critique the disparity in pay, Bershadker’s leadership has resulted in impactful initiatives that justify the salary structure in the nonprofit sector.
Leadership at ASPCA
Mathew Bershadker has introduced transformative initiatives to expand the ASPCA’s reach and impact. His leadership reflects a deep commitment to improving animal welfare, evidenced by several key accomplishments:
- Commitment to Los Angeles
A $25 million investment was made to support animal welfare in Los Angeles, focusing on reducing euthanasia rates and increasing adoptions. - Community Veterinary Center in Miami
This center provides affordable veterinary care, particularly for underserved communities, ensuring that more animals receive essential medical attention. - Collaboration with NYPD
A partnership with the New York City Police Department has strengthened the organization’s ability to protect animals from abuse and neglect through legal interventions and rescues. - COVID-19 Response
During the pandemic, Bershadker spearheaded several programs to support pet owners and animal welfare organizations, including:- Free pet food distributions.
- Grants for struggling animal shelters.
- Emergency boarding services.
- Mobile veterinary care for low-income communities.
ASPCA’s Mission and Services
The ASPCA is one of the most trusted animal welfare organizations in the United States, with 80% of donations going directly toward programs that benefit animals. It focuses on:
- Rescue and Protection
- Investigating cases of animal abuse and neglect.
- Providing emergency shelter and medical care.
- Adoption Services
- Housing and rehoming 3.2 million animals annually.
- Assisting in the return of approximately 710,000 animals to their owners.
- Support Services
- 24-hour Animal Poison Control hotline.
- Mobile clinics offering low-cost veterinary care to underserved communities.
- Pet loss support services for grieving owners.
Euthanasia Rates
While controversial, ASPCA euthanizes approximately 1.5 million animals annually due to overpopulation and medical issues. This statistic underscores the importance of adoption programs and spay/neuter initiatives.
Organizational Structure
The ASPCA operates through three main groups, each dedicated to a specific aspect of its mission:
- Animal Health Services
- Includes a state-of-the-art hospital providing critical care.
- Offers mobile clinics to prevent euthanasia of adoptable animals.
- Manages the Animal Poison Control Center to address toxicology emergencies.
- Anti-Cruelty Group
- Rescues animals from abuse, neglect, and disasters through its Field Investigation and Response teams.
- Advocates for stronger animal protection laws through Government Relations and Legal Advocacy.
- Provides rehabilitation services for animals with behavioral issues.
- Community Outreach Group
- Coordinates community programs to increase adoption rates and save at-risk animals.
- Oversees the ASPCA Adoption Center, matching pets with loving homes.
FAQs
- What does the CEO of the ASPCA earn annually?
Mathew E. Bershadker, the ASPCA CEO, earns a base salary of $750,000 per year. Including bonuses and benefits, his total annual compensation is approximately $1,073,859. - How much of ASPCA’s donations go directly to helping animals?
About 80% of donations are used to directly fund programs that rescue, rehabilitate, and support animals. The remaining 20% covers operational costs like salaries, administration, and advertising. - What services does the ASPCA provide to communities?
The ASPCA offers a range of services, including:- 24-hour Animal Poison Control hotline.
- Mobile veterinary clinics for low-income communities.
- Adoption centers and support for rehoming animals.
- Emergency rescue and disaster response for animals.
- How is the ASPCA different from the Humane Society?
While both organizations aim to protect animals, the ASPCA focuses more on direct rescue, sheltering, and rehabilitation services. The Humane Society emphasizes lobbying for animal welfare laws and broader advocacy initiatives. - Can I visit an ASPCA location or adoption center?
Yes, many ASPCA locations, including adoption centers, are open to the public. However, it’s best to check with your local ASPCA for specific hours and guidelines.
Here’s a detailed table summarizing key information from the article:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| CEO Name | Mathew E. Bershadker |
| Base Salary (2025) | $750,000 |
| Bonuses and Incentives | $276,000 |
| Other Benefits | $47,859 |
| Total Compensation | $1,073,859 |
| ASPCA Revenue | $273 million annually |
| Donation Allocation | 80% to animal care, 20% to operational costs |
| Annual Animals Sheltered | 3.2 million |
| Annual Animals Euthanized | Approximately 1.5 million |
| Key Initiatives | – $25M investment in Los Angeles animal welfare |
| – Miami Community Veterinary Center | |
| – COVID-19 response programs (free food, grants, mobile care) |
Conclusion
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) continues to lead the way in protecting and improving the lives of animals across the United States. Under Mathew E. Bershadker’s leadership, the organization has launched innovative programs, expanded its reach, and maintained its position as a trusted nonprofit.
While the CEO’s salary may raise questions for some, his efforts have undeniably driven the organization toward achieving its mission. By donating to the ASPCA, individuals contribute to a meaningful cause that directly benefits animals in need.
Whether through community outreach, veterinary services, or rescue operations, the ASPCA remains dedicated to making a tangible difference for animals nationwide
You might be interested to know about Tunnel To Towers CEO salary ideas.