San Angelo task force addresses rising dog population and safety concerns

The San Angelo City Council meeting held on May 6, 2025, focused heavily on the pressing issue of loose and stray dogs in the city, as well as the recommendations from a dedicated task force aimed at improving animal control and public safety.

The meeting began with a report from the task force, which highlighted the alarming statistics regarding the stray dog population in San Angelo. It was noted that there are approximately 500 dogs roaming loose at any given time, contributing to a significant increase in dog bites and attacks. The task force members reported spending over 370 hours reviewing city ordinances and state laws, emphasizing their commitment to understanding the complexities of the animal control situation.

Key recommendations from the task force included increasing the number of animal service officers from four to eight to enhance enforcement capabilities. This increase is seen as essential for addressing the growing number of animal-related calls, which have reached 841 since January 2025. The task force also proposed changes to city ordinances, such as redefining what constitutes an "owner" of a pet to allow for a longer period before someone is deemed responsible for an animal.

Another significant recommendation was to enforce spay and neuter requirements more rigorously. The task force believes that consistent enforcement of these ordinances could lead to a dramatic decrease in the animal population over the next three to five years. Additionally, they suggested reinstating registration tags alongside microchipping to improve the chances of returning lost pets to their owners.

The meeting also addressed the importance of community safety, with task force members stressing that the health and security of San Angelo's citizens must be prioritized. They acknowledged the need for public education regarding the shelter system, aiming to change the perception that taking animals to shelters is detrimental.

The discussion included the challenges faced by animal control officers, who reported numerous incidents involving aggressive dogs and the need for better training and resources. The task force underscored the necessity of collaboration with local animal rescue organizations to facilitate adoptions and manage the intake of stray animals effectively.

In conclusion, the San Angelo City Council meeting highlighted the urgent need for improved animal control measures in response to the growing stray dog crisis. The task force's recommendations aim to enhance public safety, promote responsible pet ownership, and ultimately create a more humane environment for both animals and residents. The council is expected to consider these recommendations in future sessions as they work towards addressing the ongoing challenges in animal services.