Fix West Texas calls out city of Odessa over euthanasia percentages

CBS 7
By Noe Ortega
Published: Jan. 18, 2024 at 7:32 PM GMT-7

ODESSA, Texas (KOSA) -Fix West Texas say the euthanasia rate in Odessa is significantly high compared to other cities.

They said that back in 2022, the euthanasia rate in the city of Odessa was 70% and that in 2023, the number is similar.

however, the city says there’s more to the story that people don’t know about.

City leaders are aware that they have an over population of dogs and cats roaming around.

The new animal shelter in Odessa opened in April, but Fix West Texas leaders believe its not being used properly and that animal control handing out tickets isn’t the solution.

Executive Director at Fix West Texas, Karen Patterson said there’s a miscommunication between the residents and the city.

“But until the city council actually comes out and says hey we’re in a crisis here, we’re having to kill all 70 percent of all animals here because we lack the space at our shelter to house these animals. Then they’re not going to get the attention from the residents that they need help.” said Patterson.

The city of Midland has a $70 voucher that can help the cost to spay and neuter. Patterson said that could happen in Odessa too, but Odessa Mayor Javier Joven disagrees.

“Saying it’s disease, things to that nature, who’s the one bringing them in, who’s the one that’s actually doing it. But because we own that animal shelter, we’re attributed to that.” said Mayor Joven.

The euthanasia percentage at the Odessa Animal Shelter in 2023, was 62%.

Out of the 2,904 euthanasias, a majority of them were due to illnesses, owner request to euthanize, aggressive animals, and injuries.

Mayor Joven said the city has had to take in multiple dogs and cats that are in bad conditions from parts like West Odessa, Gardendale, and Goldsmith.

“We see the surrounding community, come and dump from outside in, and inside out. In the end, it’s about population control. And that’s why it’s really crucial for neuter and spay.” said Mayor Joven.

City leaders also added that there are programs in place provided by the city to help spay, neuter or vaccinate pets.

“The city of Odessa already has in place various programs that we help pet owners get their animals spayed and neutered. And vaccinated at a low cost, sometimes even free.” said Mark Matta, Odessa City Council member.

Both Fix West Texas and the city said they’re open to hearing new ideas and solutions to lower euthanasia across West Texas.