Rescue organizations contributed to improved outcomes for animals at Midland Animal Services in 2025, according to a new report from the city. The shelter recorded a 61.8% increase in rescue-related transfers compared to the previous year, resulting in its Live Release Rate rising to 72%. This improvement occurred despite a 14% rise in animal intake.
“While our intakes have increased by 14%, our Live Release Rate has not decreased, it’s actually improved by 4% from 2024,” said Alexsey Dobberstine, manager of Midland Animal Services.
For the first time, transfers outpaced adoptions with 1,471 animals moved through rescue groups and partners versus 1,347 adoptions. Additionally, 663 animals were returned to their owners as part of ongoing reunification efforts.
“Even though more animals came in, that doesn’t mean more are being euthanized as some might expect,” Dobberstine said. “Our partnerships are helping us place more pets responsibly.”
The shelter handled 6,899 calls last year—an increase of 11% over the previous year—and had a total intake of 5,069 animals. Of these intakes, there were 4,134 strays and 734 owner surrenders.
Despite handling more animals and calls for service, average length of stay dropped across all categories: dogs averaged stays of just under eight days; puppies about ten days; cats about sixteen days; and kittens nearly fifteen days.
Euthanasia numbers totaled 1,250 for the year. Staff reported that over half (55%) resulted from medical or behavioral issues rather than lack of space. The breakdown was: medical reasons (437), quality of life (100), behavior (146), and space constraints (568).
Dobberstine said that work will continue with rescue groups and community partners in the coming year to further reduce euthanasia due to space limitations and improve live outcomes.
The City of Midland highlights its commitment to values such as excellence and innovation while working toward community unity and prosperity on its official website. The city also manages municipal services including recreational facilities and parks spanning over 1,364 acres, reflecting an ongoing focus on community well-being. Located in Texas’ Permian Basin—a region significant for global energy production—the City of Midland operates under a home rule charter adopted in 1940.