Animal Services Director Jamey Cantrell said during spring and summer the shelter averages an intake of around 600 animals per month. He said the city is fortunate to have a shelter that can support a high number of animals.
“Our city has had the foresight to build the shelter that we have,” Cantrell said. “We haven't run out of space. In fact, we normally are one of the first places that other shelters call when they run out of space and ask if we can help with some of their animals.”
Cantrell said the shelter is proud that no animal in its care has been euthanized since 2010.
“The last thing you want to do is have to euthanize a healthy adoptable animal just because you don't have any place to put it,” he said.
Cantrell said the shelter takes in far more puppies and kittens this time of year than usual. He said owners will often surrender their pregnant animals to avoid having to care for the litter.
“People say, ... ‘Well, I'm just going to get rid of the mother altogether,’” he said. “They bring her in, and then we have to try to find placements for eight to 10 puppies.”
The shelter does not offer spay and neuter services, but it does encourage and offer resources for pet owners in Plano so they can find clinics nearby, Cantrell said. In addition to volunteering, Cantrell said residents can help by donating money or goods through the city’s animal services website.
The Plano Animal Shelter is operating normally and welcoming all walk-in visitors during regular hours. The shelter is located at 4028 W. Plano Pkwy. Its hours are 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Mon.-Fri. and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on weekends.
To learn more, visit www.plano.gov/226/animal-services.
