Dallas Animal Services lowers fees to increase adoptions

On October 1, Dallas Animal Services (DAS) made changes to their shelter fees. These updates were based on the results of a data-driven city-wide fee study which yielded recommendations for City Council during the FY19-20 budget discussion. This was part of the City’s organization-wide fee analysis designed to ensure that appropriate fee amounts were charged.

“We are pleased to see the majority of our fees reduced, which we believe will help our increasing efforts to serve as a resource to pet owners and educate our community about responsible pet ownership,” said Interim Assistant Director, Jordan Craig. “This change will help us to move closer to our goal of responsibly saving more than 90% of the pets in our care and being Dallas90.”

DAS strives to ensure fees are reasonable and cost-effective to provide the best service but avoid earning profit, with the exception being adoption fees, which do not cover the investment in the animals but are designed to help save as many lives as possible.

The majority of DAS’ fees have been reduced, which will help increase efforts to serve as a resource to pet owners and educate the community about responsible pet ownership. The changes will also aid the Dallas90 initiative by encouraging adoption, microchipping and reducing breeding, which adds to pet overpopulation.

Updated fee list:

	Current Fee	Updated Fee
Adoption (Dog)	$85.00	$45
Adoption (Cat)	$55.00	$15
Animal Control Fee (Impounded by City)	$27.00	$25
Animal Control Administrative Fee (Boarding)	$10.00	$10
Rabies vaccination	$10.00	$10
Microchip	$15.00	$10
Spay/Neuter surgery fee	$60.00	$40
Dangerous dog registration	$50.00	$250.00
Aggressive dog registration	$50.00	$250.00
Adoption – Dog at least 6 yrs. old or adopter age 65+	$43.00	$25.00
Adoption – Cat at least 6 yrs. old or adopter age 65+	$27.00	$5.00
Annual regulated animal permit	$500.00	$350.00
Temporary regulated animal permit	$250.00	$250.00
Breeding Permit	$100.00	$250.00