A Look at Austin Animal Center

By: Marissa Alonzo-Ackerman

Austin, the capital of Texas, is home to the Austin Animal Center (AAC), a municipally run, no-kill shelter dedicated to providing a safety net for lost and homeless animals. The center’s mission is to “provide public service and essential care—food, water, shelter, and veterinary support—for animals in need.” This commitment is evident as you tour the facility. Spanning a generous area, AAC features a welcoming greeting center that leads to designated spaces for cats, dogs, and other animals at various stages of intake. Upon arrival, animals undergo an assessment by on-site veterinarians who specialize in their treatment.

Once cleared, they are placed in suitable sections tailored to their needs, ensuring that each animal receives the best possible care while awaiting their forever homes. Additionally, AAC offers various programs, including its own foster initiative. During my visit, I connected with the dedicated staff, including program manager Mary Brown, I was able to gain a sense of pride and fervent passion that helped drive the operations in the facility. Mary, who moved to Austin sight unseen, was drawn to the center after realizing her desire to help animals. After researching the community and interviewing for the position, she embraced the opportunity and has never looked back. Now celebrating over six years at AAC, Mary guided me through the facility, sharing detailed stories about the animals and their journeys.

As we moved through the shelter, it was clear how efficiently operations run. The front lobby features a streamlined check-in area where visitors can ask questions, adopt animals, or inquire about intakes. Thanks to Adopets, there are designated QR code sections that provide instant access to information about animals available for adoption, simplifying the process for potential adopters. When I spoke with team leads Emily and John, their enthusiasm for the Adopets system was evident.

They noted how the software has transformed the adoption experience, making it more organized for both staff and adopters. Emily emphasized the difference, saying, “We had to do everything on paper...now there are fewer touchpoints.” John, who has used Adopets since its implementation, appreciates the frequent updates, which keep the software effective and user-friendly. Austin Animal Center is currently entering a new phase of improvement by onboarding ShelterBuddy software. They are optimistic that combining the capabilities of both Pet Loyalty products will enhance their operational control. The AAC team is excited about the continuous support they will receive, empowering them to further their mission of helping animals in need.