Animal Management & Welfare (AM&W) is committed to ensuring the health, safety, and well-being of both animals and residents in Amarillo. We provide compassionate care for lost and unwanted animals, facilitate adoptions, enforce local and state animal laws, and promote responsible pet ownership through education and community outreach. Our mission is to create a safe, humane community for all.
- CONTACT INFORMATION
- animals@amarillo.gov
- 806-378-9032
-
AMW Officer Request:
806-378-3038 -
3501 S Osage St
Amarillo, TX 79118 -
Tuesday – Friday:
10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Saturday:
10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Animal Management & Welfare Overview
Amarillo Animal Management and Welfare (AMW) is dedicated to providing essential animal services that benefit both the animals in our care and the residents of Amarillo. We strive to maintain the safety of the public while ensuring the humane treatment of all animals. Whether it’s finding a home for a stray, reuniting lost pets with their owners, or educating the public about responsible pet ownership, AMW is here to serve as a vital resource for the community.
Our adoption services connect people with animals in need of loving homes, while our Field Services team addresses animal-related emergencies, ensures compliance with local ordinances, and responds to concerns about animal welfare. Additionally, we host educational programs and events aimed at promoting awareness about pet care, rabies prevention, and the importance of spaying and neutering pets.
We believe that everyone in the community plays a role in ensuring the safety and well-being of animals. From offering affordable adoption fees to providing resources like our Barn Cat Program, AMW is committed to fostering a safe and compassionate environment for both animals and people.
Animal Management and Welfare services.
- Pet Adoptions: AMW helps pets find loving homes through our adoption services. Our online Animal Search Tool lets you browse adoptable animals or search for lost pets. All adopted pets are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped. Visit the shelter during business hours to meet animals and start the adoption process.
- Field Services: AMW’s Field Services team handles emergencies, such as stray or injured animals and bite incidents, and ensures public safety through enforcement of local pet ordinances. Contact them for help with animal-related issues or to report problems in your area.
- Community Education and Engagement: AMW educates residents through events like vaccine clinics, adoption drives, and training sessions. We provide resources on rabies prevention, responsible pet ownership, and local pet laws to promote animal safety and care.
- Volunteer and Rescue Opportunities: You can support AMW by volunteering at the shelter, donating supplies or funds, or partnering with us through rescue programs. Programs like the Barn Cat Program rehome outdoor cats to safe environments. Visit our volunteer page to learn more.
Animal Management & Welfare Resources
Pet Adoptions
Furry friends are longing for your care! Bring home a cute companion for our shelter and give them the forever home they deserve.
The adoption fee covers essential services for your new pet, ensuring they are spayed or neutered, receive age-appropriate vaccines, and are equipped with a Microchip for identification.
Lost, Found, & Impounded Animals
If you’ve lost a pet or found an animal, AMW is here to help. Use our Animal Search Tool to check if your pet has been brought to the shelter or browse found animals in our care. If you’ve found an animal, you can bring it to the shelter or report it to our Field Services team for assistance at 806-378-9032.
Field Services
AMW’s Field Services team responds to a wide range of animal-related concerns to protect both the public and animals in the community. Whether you need help with stray or injured animals, are dealing with a dangerous situation, or need to report an animal bite, Field Services is here to assist. They also investigate reports of animal neglect, enforce local ordinances, and ensure compliance with safety standards. For emergencies, call 806-378-3038, and for non-emergencies, call 806-378-9032.
Animal or Pet Bites
If you or someone you know has been bitten by an animal, it’s essential to act quickly. First, seek medical attention to treat the injury. Then, report the bite to AMW by calling 806-378-3038. Reporting animal bites is required by state law to help protect public safety and prevent the spread of rabies. Visit this section to learn more about rabies quarantine protocols, reclaiming animals, and preventing future bites.
Volunteer or Donate
There are many ways to support AMW and make a difference in the lives of animals in need. You can volunteer your time to care for animals, assist at events, or help with administrative tasks. Donations of supplies or funds are also critical in helping us provide quality care for the animals at our shelter. Visit this section to explore volunteer opportunities, learn how to donate, or find out more about our current needs.
Animal Management & Welfare Quick Links
Lost and Found Tips
Lost & Found Overview
If you’ve lost your pet, check our Animal Search Tool, updated with animals brought to the shelter, or visit us at 3501 S. Osage St during business hours. Post on local lost-and-found websites and Facebook pages and check your pet’s microchip registry for updates.
If you’ve found a stray, have it scanned for a microchip at a vet clinic or AMW. Without a microchip, post on local lost-and-found pages or call 806-378-9032 for assistance. Visit this section to learn more about reuniting pets with their families.
Request An Officer
AMW Field Officer Details
Citations and City Laws
AMW Field Officer Details
Animal Management & Welfare officers issue citations for violations of city ordinances related to animal ownership, care, and management. Common violations include pets running at large, failure to vaccinate, or disturbing neighbors with excessive noise. Fines are determined by the Municipal Court and may range from $1 to $200, with additional court fees possible.
If you receive a animal ownership citation, you can pay it through the online payment portal or contact the Municipal Court at courts@amarillo.gov or 806-378-3082 for assistance. Ignoring a citation can lead to additional legal consequences, so it’s important to address them promptly. For more details on city laws, such as definitions and regulations regarding pet ownership, dangerous animals, or community cats, visit this section.
Barking/Animal Noise Complaints
Learn More
Excessive barking or animal noise can disrupt your quality of life, and AMW is here to help address these concerns. If you’re experiencing issues with a barking dog in your area, please submit a complaint by filling out our online form with the necessary details. This helps us investigate and take appropriate action.
Your cooperation is essential in resolving noise complaints and maintaining a peaceful community. Visit this section to access the complaint form and learn more about the process.
Surrendering a Pet
Surrendering a Pet Overview
Animal Adoption Information
Animal Adoption Information
Adopting a pet from AMW is simple and affordable! Adoption fees are $35 for dogs and $5 for cats. These fees include essential services: your new pet will be spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and microchipped for identification.
To adopt, visit the shelter during business hours—no appointment needed. If you already own a dog, a meet-and-greet is required (for dogs over 1 year old). Adopters must be at least 18 years old and commit to providing lifelong care, including food, water, and shelter.
Find your future furry friend by exploring our Animal Search Tool or visiting us today!
Animal Microchipping
Animal Microchipping Overview
Microchipping is a simple, effective way to ensure your pet can always find their way back to you if they’re lost. At AMW, microchipping services are available during regular business hours for just $10—no appointment needed.
Microchips are a permanent form of identification implanted under your pet’s skin, and they store your contact information. Updating your microchip details is essential for keeping the information accurate. Contact your microchip provider directly to make updates.
amarillo Parks & Recreation Faqs
How can I find out if you have my animal?
The best way to find out if we have your animal is to visit our Animal Search Tool or come to the shelter in person during business hours which are Tuesday – Friday 10 am to 6 pm and Saturdays from 10 am to 5 pm at 3501 South Osage Street.
How much are adoption fees?
Adopting a pet is super affordable! It’s just $35 for dogs and $5 for cats. Every adopted pet comes microchipped, vaccinated, and spayed or neutered—ready to join your family.
How can I surrender my animal?
If you need to surrender your pet, you’ll need to make an appointment first. The fee is $25 for adults and $10 for pets under 6 months. Make sure you live inside Amarillo city limits and have proof of residency handy. Just email us at amwintake@amarillo.gov, and we’ll help you get started.
What do I do if I find a stray animal?
- If you’ve had the animal for more than 3 days, it’s legally considered yours, so you’ll need to make a surrender appointment and pay the surrender fee.
- If it’s been less than 3 days, try these steps:
- Get the animal scanned for a microchip at any vet clinic.
- Post about the animal on social media platforms like Facebook or Nextdoor.
- Walk around the neighborhood—pets often stay close to home.
If the animal is too young to survive on its own, bring it to AMW immediately.
How do I file a barking complaint?
We handle barking complaints online. Just head to AMW’s website and use the Barking and Noise Complaint Form to submit your report. Field officers don’t take barking complaints in person.
What do I need to reclaim my animal?
To get your pet back, you’ll need to bring proof of ownership (like vet records, photos, or microchip details), a valid photo ID, and be ready to pay any reclaim fees. Once you’ve got everything together, come see us, and we’ll help reunite you with your pet.
How can I set up a meet-and-greet for my pet?
If you’re interested in introducing your pet to a potential buddy, give our Adoptions Office a call at 806-378-6483 or email us at animals@amarillo.gov. Keep in mind that meet-and-greets aren’t required for puppies under a year old.
What should I do with a deceased animal?
We’re sorry for your loss. Deceased animals should be bagged and dropped off at the shelter’s Depository Box on the north end of the building or placed in your residential trash. For livestock, you’ll need to contact a private removal service.
What should I do if my pet is sick?
If your pet is sick, we recommend taking them to a vet as soon as possible. AMW doesn’t offer veterinary services for privately owned animals, but your local vet will be able to help.
Does AMW offer free pet food?
Yes! If you need assistance, stop by our shelter during business hours to access our free pet food pantry. It’s available while supplies last, and we’re happy to help.
How many pets can I own in Amarillo?
You’re allowed to have up to 4 domesticated pets per household. If you have barnyard fowl, like chickens or roosters, you can keep up to 4 per quarter-acre lot. Litters under 6 months old don’t count toward your total.
How do I get my pet microchipped?
Getting your pet microchipped is easy! No appointment is needed—just visit us during regular business hours, and we’ll take care of it for only $10.
Who should I contact for non-emergency animal issues?
For things like barking complaints, stray animals, or wildlife concerns, you can email animals@amarillo.gov or call our non-emergency line at 806-378-9032. We’ll review your concerns and respond promptly.
How do I certify my pet as a service or emotional support animal?
AMW doesn’t certify service or emotional support animals. You’ll need to contact your healthcare provider for assistance with those certifications.
What happens if I adopt a pet but don’t pick it up?
If your adopted pet isn’t picked up within 24 hours of surgery, they’ll be placed back up for adoption, and unfortunately, no refund will be provided. So, please make arrangements to pick them up on time!