Despite the high number of animals that are euthanized in Texas animal shelters, League City has maintained its status as a “no-kill” shelter since 2017 and was recognized in June for its 2024 efforts by Best Friends Animal Society.

What happened

The Best Friends Animal Society recognized the League City Animal Shelter with a plaque for maintaining its no-kill status earlier in June, communications director Sarah Osbourne said.

To be considered no-kill, an animal shelter must save 90% or more of the dogs and cats it takes in. This factors in that approximately 10% of pets who enter shelters have medical or behavioral circumstances that warrant humane euthanasia—as opposed to euthanizing for lack of space, according to a news flash from the city.

Some context


In Texas, only an estimated 36% of the state’s 371 animal shelters have achieved a “no-kill” designation, according to 2021 data from pet owner educational resource Total.Vet.

The percentage of U.S. shelters that are no-kill doubled in the past six years, from 24% in 2016 to 52% in 2021, according to data from Best Friends Animal Society.

Quote of note

“This milestone reflects the dedication of our staff, volunteers, fosters and especially our community,” Animal Service Manager Amelia Nusbaum said in the news flash. “We truly couldn’t do this without the ongoing support of those who adopt, foster, volunteer and donate. Every contribution makes a life-saving difference for the pets who depend on us.”