Lake Dallas Permanently Closes Animal Shelter Due to Budget Constraints

Lake Dallas, Texas, officially closed its animal shelter on Monday. A sign posted on the shelter’s door states that no animals are currently available for adoption.

City Manager Luke Olson explained that budget constraints drove the decision to close the shelter. “These are tough decisions, and while not popular, they are necessary for maintaining a good level of service for our residents,” Olson said.

The closure saves the city approximately $200,000 per year, which Olson confirmed will be redirected towards crucial road projects as the city continues to grow.

In a letter to residents, Mayor Andi Nolan elaborated on the city’s financial challenges, stating, “While property tax revenue increased by $130,000 this year, inflation has outpaced this growth. Additionally, the fire contract with Lake Cities Fire Department rises annually to cover operational costs.”

All American Dogs, a nonprofit based in Pilot Point, now handles animal services in Lake Dallas. The organization also serves 29 other municipalities. It will manage animal services and adoptions, and when a lost animal has a chip or is identified as belonging to a Lake Dallas resident, it returns the pet to its owner.

The decision reflects Lake Dallas’s focus on balancing its growing infrastructure needs with its limited budget.