Shelter manager reports intake trends and announces new safety policies after staff injury

Kinsey Reddington, animal services manager for the City of Weatherford, told the advisory committee that animal intake rose by about two animals per day in July–August while adoptions remained steady. She said rescue transfers to partner organizations have decreased by about 35 percent and credited longer lengths of stay at partner rescues for that change. Reddington highlighted a 65 percent increase in return‑to‑owner rates across the two months reviewed.

Reddington described a recent serious incident in which a kennel technician was attacked in a secluded area of the shelter. The employee suffered severe injuries, was hospitalized and remains on leave. In response, the shelter has implemented new safety protocols: staff must carry citronella spray as a deterrent; catch poles and other safety tools are being replaced and stocked at each building; staff may no longer work alone in isolated areas and must remain within speaking distance of another employee; additional radios were added to improve communication; and staff training focused on safety has been increased, including a catch‑pole training led by Officer Davis.

Reddington also urged committee members and the public to promote fostering to relieve pressure on partner rescues and prevent backlog.