QAC Animal Services Excels in 2023 and Announces Exciting Plans for 2024
Queen Anne’s County Animal Services (QACAS) recently presented an update to the County Commissioners, highlighting their significant achievements throughout 2023 and outlining exciting programs and updates planned for the upcoming year.
In 2023, QACAS saw a notable increase in animal intakes, with 1,324 animals entering the shelter, marking a 29% rise from 2022. These intakes encompassed various categories, including 583 strays, 299 owner/guardian surrenders, 49 return adoptions, 60 seized custody cases, 322 service-ins, and 11 transfers. Cats comprised 842 of these animals, dogs 371, while 111 were other pets such as guinea pigs, rats, birds, turtles, and more.
QACAS operates a comprehensive stray hold policy, providing a seven-day window for owners to claim their pets. All animals undergo mandatory rabies vaccination before release. Following the hold period, animals become spayed/neutered and prepared for adoption.
In 2023, 166 animals were successfully reunited with their owners, representing a 39% increase from the previous year, partly attributed to enhanced social media utilization. Moreover, QACAS performed 669 routine spay/neuter surgeries, 206 trap-neuter-release procedures, and 14 specialty surgeries, including a heartwarming success story involving Umbrella, a kitten receiving critical eye surgery.
The year 2023 witnessed 679 animals finding forever homes, a testament to QACAS's commitment to animal welfare. Volunteer engagement surged by 78%, with volunteers contributing over 2,878 hours, while 389 animals received foster care support. Additionally, initiatives like "Doggie Day Trips" and "Slumber Party" offered 52 dogs’ temporary respite from shelter life.
QACAS hosted several community events, including the inaugural "Pawing in Love" Fun Run and Puppy Yoga, alongside fostering partnerships with local organizations for impactful initiatives like the Holiday Pet Donation Drive.
With a live release rate of 94.6% in 2023, surpassing the national standard for "No Kill" status, QACAS remains dedicated to achieving excellence in animal care.
Noteworthy improvements in 2023 included the introduction of new cat condos, lobby renovations, dental equipment enhancements, upgraded kennel amenities, and revamped dog play yards.
Looking ahead to 2024, QACAS anticipates further enhancements, including phone system upgrades, laundry room remodeling, expanded enrichment programs, updated kennels, and the launch of behavior and obedience programs, both on-site and virtually.
For more information about Queen Anne’s County Animal Services and their initiatives, visit https://qac.org/1425/Animal-Services.