This page covers pet ownership, animal care, veterinary health and adoption trends. Reporting follows local policy, care standards and the connection between the city and its companion animals.
A federal judge ruled that Austin must release Shane Lilly's dog Major rather than euthanize him after more than 575 days in city custody.
Live Poll
Should local governments be allowed to euthanize dogs that have attacked people?
A federal court ordered the release of a Belgian Malinois from kennel isolation to undergo professional rehabilitation.
Local crews safely freed an animal trapped in a tree hollow on Monday.
Live Poll
Do you trust the local police to effectively handle animal cruelty investigations in your area?
The warrants were issued throughout September as part of an ongoing investigation into local animal abuse cases.
Live Poll
Do you support using biological controls like grass carp to manage invasive plants in local lakes?
The city introduced over 7,000 sterile fish to manage hydrilla growth in Lake Austin.
Live Poll
Do you prefer using mobile, convenient pet services over traditional, fixed-location pet salons?
The new franchise will debut at the upcoming Barktoberfest Festival on October 17.
Coverage takes in veterinary care advancements, adoption data, safety recalls and local ordinances that impact animal ownership. It reaches across the city and the communities around it. Seasonal patterns often dictate the flow of shelter populations, creating distinct shifts in adoption and surrender rates throughout the year. Population growth and the availability of housing that permits animals remain the most persistent factors influencing pet ownership in the area.
