What's happening
To tackle persistent overcrowding, the ASO coordinated a regional name-your-price pet adoption event in late June involving the Austin Humane Society, Austin Pets Alive, and Pflugerville and Williamson County Regional animal shelters. Interim Animal Services Officer Rolando Fernandez Jr. said the event was informed by the city shelter's strategic goals to boost adoptions and other live pet outcomes, and to improve regional partnerships.
The Animal Services Office is also promoting Emancipet's mobile spay/neuter clinics, with several to be held in underserved neighborhoods mainly around the east side in the weeks ahead.
Next up, local animal owners can attend a free spay/neuter clinic between July 28 and Aug. 1 at Circuit of the Americas, located at 9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd., Del Valle. The free event will run daily from 7:30-10 a.m. and is open to all Austin and Travis County residents.
Fernandez said those summer events also tie into the ASO strategic plan and goals like expanding affordable service access and promoting pet wellness.
"Together, these efforts reflect ASO’s sustained commitment to lifesaving strategies, regional collaboration and accessible services for pet owners throughout our community," he said in a June memo.
Taking a step back
The ASO's focus on the new five-year strategy comes after years of consistent overcrowding issues, negative audits and external reviews, frayed community ties and criticism. This spring, City Council approved a new blueprint for improved service and operations informed by residents, staff and other local stakeholders.
"The council’s approval of this strategic plan ensures Austin Animal Services can move forward with key improvements, including expanding access to shelter animal intake,” City Manager T.C. Broadnax said in an April statement. “This plan reflects the collaboration and dedication of our community, staff and partners, and I look forward to seeing its impact as we work to improve services and outcomes for animals and residents alike."
As of early July, the Austin Animal Center remained at "critical" capacity for all dogs and cats, with new animal intake open for emergencies only.
