Frequently Asked Questions

Is AHS a non-profit organization?

Yes. We receive all of our funding from community donations, fundraising events, and foundation grants. We receive no local, state, or national funding.

Is AHS associated with Town Lake Animal Center?

No. Town Lake Animal Center is the City of Austin’s municipal animal shelter. We are an independent organization with no city funding.

Does AHS work with TLAC and other animal organizations?

Absolutely. We have long-lasting relationships with Town Lake Animal Center and other local animal shelters (like those in Williamson County, Bastrop, Elgin, Taylor, etc.) We “transfer” animals from these overcrowded shelters in our adoption program.

We are also a proud partner of groups like Animal Trustees of Austin, Emancipet, and TLAC in addition to being part of the ASPCA’s Mission: Orange movement. Mission: Orange offers all of our organizations invaluable resources to achieve the goal of ending unnecessary euthanasia in Austin.

What does it mean to be a “no-kill shelter”?

We are a selective intake shelter, meaning we focus on saving as many adoptable animals as possible. We shelter an adoptable animal for as long as it takes to find him or her a permanent home. All animals who enter our shelter pass a medical and temperament test.

How many animals does AHS save/adopt each year?

Between 2,600 and 3,000 animals are adopted every year.

What about spaying and neutering?

We sterilize every single animal before they leave us.

But I want a guinea pig/parrot/python! Do you adopt other types of animals?

Sorry, but we work with dogs and cats exclusively. They keep us plenty busy!

How long do animals usually stay at AHS?

The average stay is 2-3 weeks. Adult cats and dogs typically take longer to adopt.

How many animals does the City of Austin euthanize?

The City of Austin, at Town Lake Animal Center, euthanizes about 11,000 – 12,000 animals per year. Also keep in mind, they take in more than 25,000 animals a year.

Does AHS have a paid staff?

Yes, we have around 40 permanent and part-time employees—and more than 600 volunteers!

Where do your animals come from?

Transfers from other shelters and owner surrenders.

Do local veterinarians help you?

First, the AHS Clinic examines every animal that comes through our doors. For special cases, we have a variety of partnerships with veterinarians and emergency clinics to assist our animals with medical needs. We also have a partnership with Texas A&M Veterinarian School.

What is the dog-to-cat adoption ratio?

Believe it or not, it’s about 50-50.

Are there criteria for adopting animals?

Some. Every potential adopter must complete an application and pass a simple interview.

Do you accept ANY cats and dogs in your adoption program?

If you want to surrender your pet, you can contact us. All cats and dogs must pass a medical and temperament evaluation before being placed in our adoption program.