The Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center has saved 150,000 dogs and cats since implementing reforms 13 years ago to increase its live-release rate. According to the Hillsborough County website, in 2012, the shelter reported about 12,000 euthanasias, approximately two-thirds of its intake. The live-release rate has since risen to more than 90%.
From October 2022 to the present, the number of animals saved grew from 100,000 to 150,000. Outcomes include 101,133 adoptions, 27,643 pets returned to owners, and 21,630 animals transferred to rescue groups. The center is the only open-admission shelter in the area, accepting all dogs and cats regardless of condition, and is currently operating at about 120% capacity for dogs and 300% for cats.
Key measures include creating a pet support team to help residents keep their pets, partnering with over 300 rescue organizations, and introducing enrichment programs such as dog playgroups. The shelter has also expedited spay/neuter and evaluations to allow same-day adoptions and provides online viewing of available pets. Capacity to treat a wider range of medical conditions has also increased.
Residents interested in adopting, fostering, or volunteering can visit HCFL.gov/pets for more information.
