Billboard Marks Animals Euthanized In El Paso

As drivers make their way through El Paso, they may come across a jarring figure: 5,010.

That’s how many animals the city has euthanized this year because of overpopulation problems. The New Hope Alliance animal shelter is keeping tabs on the number through a billboard. Last year, 18,000 animals were euthanized by the city.

“I think it’s horrible,” Jennifer Martinez said. “There are so many dogs and cats that just need a loving home.”

Animal Control officials say overcrowded cages and an endless stream of stray animals is exacberatting an already problematic situation. Health department officials said animal abuse and neglect is rampant throughout El Paso county. They encourage pet owners to spay and neuter their pets.

“It’s not that hard,” Cindy Reznek said. “A lot of the programs that help these animals are even free, so why not.”

The billboard is posted at I-10 and the Piedras exit.