Hillsborough's Animal Shelter Steps Up For Adoptions

Hillsborough County Animal Services is moving forward with plans to increase adoptions, stressing that "despite recent challenges with staff transitions and increased intake of animals, the shelter remains a great, affordable choice for pet adoptions," according to a shelter news release.

Among the noted developments:

• The shelter is open seven days a week and most holidays, affording family members a chance to visit the shelter together.

• Securing advice from experts at the Hillsborough County Veterinary Medical Society and from animal advisory committee and rescue group members.

• Partnering with U.S. Army Veterinary Corps from MacDill Air Force Base to provide veterinarian technicians to assist with the increasing number of necessary medical procedures.

“We’re very excited about implementing our strategic plan and improving the overall customer experience at the shelter. Our goal is to continue to make it easier and affordable for citizens to find their new pet any day of the week,” said Ian Hallett, Hillsborough County Animal Services program director.

According to the release, HCAS takes in more than 20,000 dogs and cats each year. "One primary goal for the shelter is to reunite lost pets with their family and find homes for the remaining animals with new families or other rescue groups. Despite our best efforts, more than 12,000 animals are still euthanized each year."

Hillsborough County reportedly "remains committed to placing more companion animals into stable homes," noting that "residents can feel confident the animals they adopt from the shelter are safe and in good health."

Added Hallett: “We are very optimistic about moving forward with the recommended operational improvements which are aimed at helping our residents toBe the Way Home for animals in shelter care."

Watch Animal Services Director Ian Hallett talk about the shelter’s improvements in this Animal Services video.

For more information about Animal Services programs and services, call 813-272-5900 or visit www.hillsboroughcounty.org.