Today, Austin Animal Center received a seizure of 20 large dogs. 

“This sudden influx highlights the crisis we’ve been facing regarding space,” said Chief Animal Services Officer Don Bland. “This morning we started our day with 344 medium/large dogs, and our capacity is 272. We have 33 dogs living in crates and dozens more in non-public kennels that are traditionally saved for situations like this. We have nowhere to place incoming dogs.”

Austin Animal Center is asking the community to consider foster a medium/large dog for at least a month to help alleviate some of the strain. Interested fosters are asked to apply online at www.austintexas.gov/department/foster-pet. 

The shelter is located at 7201 Levander Loop and open for adoptions Monday through Sunday from 11 am to 7 pm. Adoption fees are currently $25 for all animals through Bissell Pet Foundation’s “Empty the Shelters” national adoption event. Fees are waived for any dog staying in a crate. 

Rescue partners are also being asked to help by pulling available medium/large dogs as able. Interested rescues are asked to email animal.rescue@austintexas.gov