Austin Animal Center reaches critical capacity ahead of New Year’s Eve

Staf Reports

AUSTIN – Austin Animal Center (AAC) is at critical capacity today with 493 animals being cared for at the shelter. The facility’s ideal capacity is around 350 animals for the amount of kennels and staffing available. Dogs are being housed in temporary crates until kennels open up and dozens of adoptable animals are being housed in non-public areas.

AAC is asking for the community’s help this week. Citizens who find loose pets are encouraged to walk the pet around, knock on doors, and post on sites like Nextdoor and Facebook.

Data collected both locally and nationally shows that most pets are found within a few blocks of their homes and they have a greater chance of getting back home if they stay in the community. If the finder or a neighbor cannot safely hold onto the pet, they can call 311 to reach an Animal Protection Officer.

Pet owners can take steps to be prepared for the fireworks that happen during New Year’s Eve celebrations, such as walking their dogs in daylight hours, shutting windows, turning on the TV or radio, and making sure their pets are microchipped.

Austin Animal Center is open for adoptions on Wednesday and Thursday from 10 am to 6 pm as well as Friday from 10 am to 5 pm. The Center will be closed on New Year’s Day. AAC welcomes adopters, fosters, and rescue partners to take home any of the hundreds of adoptable animals.

AAC is also hiring for several vacant positions. Interested candidates can apply through the City of Austin website.