The City of Amarillo Animal Management and Welfare Department (AAMW) is closing the shelter’s deceased animal depository box, a move supported by the AAMW Advisory Board as part of the department’s long-term strategic plan. The change follows a review of municipal best practices and is intended to improve safety, animal welfare and operational efficiency.
“Closing the depository allows us to focus more fully on protecting living animals while also reducing unnecessary health and safety risks for staff and the public,” said AAMW Director Victoria Medley. “This decision brings Amarillo into alignment with best practices followed by other municipalities and ensures we are operating under the highest standards of care.”
Medley acknowledged the emotional side of losing a pet.
“Losing a pet is never easy,” Medley said. “This change ensures pets are handled safely by their owners while allowing us to continue caring for the shelter animals who depend on us every day.”
The depository box had been identified as an operational risk and presented multiple long-term challenges. Unbagged remains often required staff to handle and re-bag animals before they could be transported to the landfill. This increased the risk of environmental contamination and disease transmission to live animals and AAMW employees. The site also became a target for illegal dumping by citizens and businesses, which added costs and created further hazards. In addition, state guidance from the Texas Animal Control Association emphasizes that living animals must always take priority and be kept separate from deceased animals, a standard better supported without a depository on the premises.
Amarillo residents who experience the loss of a pet should place small animals in a secure plastic bag, double bagging if possible, and dispose of them in their trash receptacle for collection or take them directly to the city landfill. Families who prefer other arrangements may work with their veterinarian or a private pet aftercare provider. These services are not provided by the City of Amarillo but may offer additional options.
For more information, contact AAMW at 806-378-9032. Also for more information, contact City of Amarillo Media Relations Manager Dave Henry at (806) 378-5219 or by email at David.Henry@amarillo.gov.