A nonprofit set up by software billionaire David Duffield to give money to "no kill" animal shelters around the country has come under fire by the public and animal shelters alike.

Duffield, retired president and CEO of PeopleSoft Inc., set up Maddie's Fund -- named after his deceased miniature schnauzer -- with $200 million in stock. To be eligible for grants, nonprofit animal groups must document that the number of cats and dogs being put to sleep is declining, the Los Angeles Times reports. The goal is for these groups to eliminate euthanasia within four years.

Animal activist have complained that they don't like the strings attached to Duffield's gifts. Public opponents say the billionaire is paying more attention to animals than people, L.A. Times reports.

Still others say the "no kill" cause is not based in reality, because there are not enough homes for all of the strays.

The 59-year-old Duffield argues that the animal-welfare community needs to be more innovative and daring, the L.A. Times reports.

He doesn't apologize for the program, saying he is more fulfilled by contributing to this area than any other. "I feel for the homeless and people with disease, but I haven't been touched by that," he told the newspaper.

What has affected Duffield is his late miniature schnauzer, who was "great friend" and source of comfort" for he and his wife while they were trying to establish their software firm, the L.A. Times reports.

The couple established the Duffield Family Foundation in 1994 and gave about $10 million to several animal causes, the newspaper reports. Last year, the foundation was reorganized as Maddie's Fund. The fund is run by Richard Avanzino, former president of the "no kill" San Francisco SPCA.

To receive grants, shelters must comply with the organization's two-page grant guidelines. Money cannot be used for building projects or general operating expenses. The money will be given to programs that will eliminate euthanasia.

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