AUSTIN, Texas — The office that operates the Austin Animal Center (AAC) is asking for the community’s input as it works to develop a strategic plan.
It comes after an audit last year revealed significant issues at the shelter, including dogs being kept in too-small cages, dirty conditions and strained relationships with stakeholders.
The audit found that the "city's animal welfare priorities conflict with each other." The audit report states that under the current conditions, the AAC is not able to serve as an open-intake shelter while providing humane care for the animals in its possession and maintaining its goal live release rate.
The community survey, launched on Wednesday, is aimed at gathering feedback on animal services priorities. It is part of the assessment phase of the strategic planning process that includes:
- Interviews with external partners and stakeholders
- Staff and volunteer listening sessions
- Reviewing previous audits, surveys and reports
- Analyzing and reviewing data
- Identifying best practices from similar animal services organizations
“We are excited to work with the community, key stakeholders and the Animal Advisory Commission to create a strategic plan that best serves the community of Austin. This collaborative effort will produce a working plan,” Stephanie Hayden-Howard, assistant city manager, said.
Meanwhile, the shelter has temporarily closed intake as the shelter continues to experience critical capacity issues. Intake is restricted to emergencies, which includes animals that have life-threatening injury or illness, or animals that present a clear public safety risk.
The survey will be active from July 17 to Aug. 14.