Nearly 500 pets found new families last year, thanks to the work of Allen Animal Shelter.
The adoptions were the highlight of a busy year for Allen Animal Shelter staff. According to a report by the Animal Shelter Advisory Board, staff handled more than 4,100 complaints, picked up 484 animals, accepted 231 surrendered pets and worked 168 bite cases—all up from 2016.
The boost in adoptions is credited in part to several special events, including “Clear the Shelters” in August, “Santa Paws” in December, “Yappentine’s Day” in February and “Pirouettes for Pets” in March.
Shelter staff also benefitted from a new resource to help dogs exhibiting behavioral issues. The facility now has a dog trainer on retainer to train volunteers and staff in ways to make animals more adoptable.
During a presentation to Allen City Council, board chair Matt McGee said monetary donations helped cover the expense of helping sick and injured animals. One success story: Stacy, a stray dog who eluded animal control officers for three weeks before her rescue in April 2017. Covered in ticks and fleas, she needed emergency surgery for a uterine infection within days of arriving at Allen Animal Shelter. She was adopted in December after months of loving rehabilitation by shelter staff and volunteers.
“I had the privilege to meet [Stacy] before, when she was stand-offish,” said McGee. “But by the time she was adopted she was a friendly pet ready for a good home.”
The board presentation on April 10 coincided with Animal Control Officer Appreciation Week. It celebrates animal control officers for their outstanding customer service, educational efforts and care of the community’s pets.
Learn more about volunteer, donation and adoption opportunities.