Austin Animal Services reports 95% live outcome rate and volunteer surge for October

Austin Animal Services reported October operational figures to the Animal Advisory Commission, highlighting a 95% live outcome rate and robust volunteer activity.

Jason Grama, presenting the monthly report, said the shelter recorded 1,068 intakes in October, 436 adoptions, and 92 returns to owner. On November 1 the department’s inventory was about 1,280 animals, including roughly 348 in foster care. The department reported 559 spay/neuter surgeries at the Austin Animal Center and 122 animals transferred to partners for medical reasons — about 105 of those to Austin Pets Alive.

Volunteers continue to be a major resource: Grama said 550 volunteers donated more than 7,700 hours in October and 366 families fostered animals. He also reported 396 field reports and substantial engagement on social media and a recent adoption weekend that placed 72 animals.

Commissioners asked about an apparent increase in recorded vaccinations; Grama said the number was tracked in ShelterBuddy and may reflect differences in how multiple vaccinations, species and ages are recorded. Interim Director Fernandez said staff are focusing on data collection and management improvements and will audit anomalies to determine whether the increase is real or a data‑entry issue.

Commissioner Norton praised a foster experience under the new system and several commissioners asked for future breakdowns, including TNR (trap‑neuter‑return) volunteer hours. Staff agreed to provide more detailed breakdowns in upcoming reports.

What’s next: staff will audit vaccination data for accuracy and commit to delivering more detailed volunteer and TNR breakdowns to commissioners.