Ames Animal Shelter Recognized Again for Reaching No-Kill Status

Published on June 17, 2025

AMES, Iowa – Ames Animal Shelter was recognized by Best Friends Animal Society for reaching no-kill status in 2024. This designation is given to shelters that save 90% or more of dogs and cats entering the shelter during the past year.

Ames Animal Shelter has celebrated a live release rate of 90% since 2005 and over 95% since 2015. This the shelter’s third year in a row being recognized by Best Friends Animal Society for its no-kill status.

A 90% save rate is the nationally recognized benchmark to be considered “no-kill.” The rate acknowledges approximately 10% of animals entering shelters have medical or behavioral circumstances that warrant humane euthanasia rather than killing for lack of space.

“Earning no-kill status is a testament to the dedication of our staff and volunteers, and the incredible support of our community,” said Animal Control Supervisor Ron Edwards. “We strive every year to meet the needs of any animal arriving at our shelter. Our live release rate for all domestic animals in 2024 was 98.67%.”

Best Friends Animal Society is an animal welfare organization working to end the killing of dogs and cats in America’s shelters.

Ames Animal Control and Ames Animal Shelter is a division of the Ames Police Department. Animal Shelter staff is committed to compassionate treatment of animals in their care, reuniting pets with owners, and educating the public about responsible pet ownership and urban wildlife management. For more information on the Ames Animal Shelter and to see what animals are available for adoption, please visit www.AmesAnimalShelter.org.

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