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El Paso's Animal Shelter Faces Financial Strain Amid Rising Costs and Increased Intakes

El Paso Matters•Sunday, July 19, 2026 at 1:00 PM•Elida S. Perez

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El Paso's regional animal shelter is experiencing financial challenges as local governments dispute rising service costs. The city has interlocal agreements with seven municipalities, but El Paso County and Horizon City have halted payments for over a year, while San Elizario paused payments two months ago. The cost for sheltering animals increased significantly, with a new fee structure implemented in September 2024. Animal intakes have surged, with a 37% rise from fiscal years 2023 to 2025, prompting concerns about the sustainability of the agreements. The city is owed approximately $1.8 million from these municipalities, highlighting the urgent need for resolution to ensure continued animal care services.

Key Details: • El Paso Animal Services is the only large municipal shelter in the Borderland. • New fee structure: $110 intake fee and $27 daily fee per animal. • As of July, the city was owed $1.8 million from local governments. • Animal Services has an annual budget of $16 million and can house about 980 animals.

city-council costs animal-services shelter intakes

People & Organizations

Horizon CityEl PasoFort BlissSocorroEl Paso Animal ServicesSan ElizarioMichael Wachsmann5625 Confetti Drive5001 Fred Wilson Ave.9068 Socorro Road

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