. >> reporter: it used to cost a fortune back when suburban chicago's wilmette pets sold only purebreds. >> it wouldn't be unheard of dogs sold for $1800-2,000. >> reporter: and sales of so-called designer dogs made up 30% to 40 for the of david cozzolini's business. >> it's always been a goal of mine to not need to sell puppies. >> reporter: it took three years to figure out ways to stay afloat without designer dog sales but with the help of a local group, adopta pet, coaz leany did it. he now uses his shop to find homes for shelter dogs and cats. >> after we first announced it, it was such a huge relief off of my shoulders that i can now help instead of add to maybe a problem. >> reporter: it is a problem on heartbreaking display at the nation's dog pounds. 20,000 cats and dogs are shuttled through this one giant facility in chicago each year. >> in general, animal control facilities across the country ooughtinize at least 50% of the animals that walk through the door. >> reporter: that's seven of every 10 cats that are picked up and five of every 10 dogs, three to four million cats a