Bayou Animal Services recognized for high live‑release rate; shelter credits grants and volunteers

Best Friends Animal Society joined Dickinson's City Council meeting to present a recognition plaque to Bayou Animal Services for achieving a high live‑release (or "save") rate in 2025. LaKisha Shaw of Best Friends said the shelter had achieved a 96% save rate for 2025 and credited grants and programming for the improvement.

"I believe the shelter achieved 96% save rate for 2025," LaKisha Shaw said during the recognition. She noted the Rachel Ray grant and the shelter’s STAR and SNIFARI programs for emergency medical support and enrichment that contributed to the outcome. Bayou Animal Services staff described expanded intake and partner networks: shelter staff said they had accepted more owner surrenders and achieved more live outcomes this year through adoptions, fosters, reunifications and rescue partnerships.

Nina, speaking for Bayou Animal Services, emphasized that a 'no‑kill' recognition does not mean keeping every animal regardless of medical or severe behavioral conditions; she said the shelter’s work focused on building systems to save more lives while acknowledging humane euthanasia remains an option for animals without reasonable hope of recovery. City staff and council thanked volunteers and partners and invited the public to view the shelter's programs.