Concho Valley PAWS Criticizes San Angelo Shelter’s Euthanasia Policy Change

SAN ANGELO, TX – Concho Valley PAWS is pushing back against new policies at the San Angelo Animal Shelter, claiming the changes will lead to increased euthanasia and reduced transparency regarding the shelter’s euthanasia list.

In a social media post Thursday, Concho Valley PAWS stated the shelter will now euthanize stray dogs without collars or microchips after 72 hours and may euthanize owner-surrendered pets upon arrival.

The organization called the shift a return to outdated “capture and kill” policies and urged residents to contact City Manager Daniel Valenzuela and city council members to oppose the changes.

The City of San Angelo announced Thursday that the shelter has lifted intake restrictions to address the growing number of stray dogs on city streets. Officials stated that by increasing intake, they hope to improve public safety and reduce the number of loose dogs. The shelter’s euthanasia list will continue, with the next deadline set for March 1.

Concho Valley PAWS argued that eliminating public euthanasia lists and increasing euthanasia rates will negatively impact both animals and the community.

PAWS cited historical euthanasia rates at the shelter from 1960 to 2016, when they say over 9,000 animals were euthanized annually, as an example of why the approach is ineffective.

The City of San Angelo encourages residents to help reduce euthanasia by fostering, adopting, or working with rescues to find homes for stray pets.