Denver residents are being asked to catch stray dogs due to understaffing at Denver Animal Protection. The agency has only 11 animal protection officers to cover the entire city, resulting from recent budget cuts and layoffs. Residents who call the hotline may be told to catch the dog themselves and bring it to the shelter or a vet.
Understaffing and Budget Cuts
The city’s $250 million budget cuts have left the animal protection department with limited resources. The department had 18 animal protection officers in 2010, but now has only 11, despite the city’s population growing to over 740,000. The city is working to prevent pet abandonment by providing access to free and low-cost veterinary care.
The number of dogs being surrendered has risen significantly over the past five years, with a notable increase in animal cruelty and neglect cases. The city partners with organizations like WellPower and the Department of Housing Stability to connect people with additional support for veterinary care.
Residents are encouraged to call dispatch at 720-913-2080 whenever they see a stray dog, even if officers aren’t available to respond. If the dog is near busy intersections or schools, has bitten someone, or is acting aggressively, the call will be prioritized for a response.
Original reporting: Denverite — read the source article.
