San Marcos animal shelter out of kennel space, adopters needed

Amira Van Leeuwen | Staff Reporter

The San Marcos Regional Animal Shelter, located east of IH-35 at 750 River Rd, unexpectedly brought in dozens of dogs on March 4, 2022, leaving no available kennel space. The shelter posted an urgent plea to the public on their social media sites for help.

“Despite [the social media posts] being seen more than 70,000 times, the posts only resulted in ten dogs being adopted from the shelter. The kennels we emptied filled right back up, and we anticipate even more dogs will arrive at the shelter throughout the week,” Communications Specialist Madeline Spencer said in an email. 

“There was a large-scale impoundment of 31 dogs plus. We’re still the open admissions shelter so the regular intakes are just kind of rolling in at the predictable pace that those come in at, which is fast,” Animal Services Manager Christie Banduch said. 

According to Banduch, it was a seizure case, which is generally for neglect and abuse.

“We need to move our adoptable guys [dogs] quicker. As they’re coming in, coming off stray hold, getting ready for adoption, we need adopters coming in to keep that space flow happening for us,” Banduch said.

The shelter could not provide further comment on the case that was brought in due to an ongoing investigation.

All adopters need to show a valid, Government-Issued I.D. and be at least 18-years-old. Adopters also will have to have a conversation with the shelter’s adoption counselors and volunteers regarding the best pet options.

Renters should confirm pet policies with their landlord or property manager. If a pet is returned because the landlord would not allow it, the adoption fee will not be refunded.

If there is another dog in your household, the shelter strongly suggests that you bring it to the shelter for a meet-and-greet to evaluate compatibility.

Those interested in adopting or would like more information call the shelter during open hours at 512-805-2657 or email animaladoptions@sanmarcostx.gov.