What “No Kill” Really Means
in Jefferson County
give every animal a chance.
The term “no kill shelter” is often seen as a simple promise, but inside Jefferson County Animal Control, the reality is far more complex.
It is not just about saving animals. It is about doing it responsibly, balancing space, staffing, and care standards to ensure every animal that enters the Animal Resource Center receives the attention it needs.
More Than Empty Kennels
Walking through the facility, rows of kennels line the hallways. Some dogs jump up, excitedly, to greet visitors. Others sit quietly, watching and waiting.
The Animal Resource Center at Jefferson County Animal Control also provides care for cats and other animals, all of which fall under the same commitment to care.
Some animals make it obvious the moment you walk by. They are not just looking for attention, they are looking for connection and a place to belong.
At first glance, it can be easy to assume that empty kennels mean there is plenty of room. However, capacity is not just about space.
— Mitch Bair, Director of County Services
Each animal requires daily care, cleaning, feeding, medical attention, and time outside of their enclosure. Without adequate staffing, simply filling every available space would reduce the quality of care the shelter is able to provide.
What No Kill Really Means
Being a no kill facility does not mean every animal can be taken in without limits. It means that adoptable animals are not euthanized simply for space.
— Mitch Bair, Director of County Services
Instead, the commitment is long term. Every animal that comes through the Animal Resource Center is given care, time, and opportunity until the right home is found.
Being no kill means giving every animal a chance, no matter how long it takes.
— Liz Allgeyer-Huber, Assistant Animal Control Manager
That commitment applies across the board, from dogs to cats and beyond. It is what makes staffing, resources, and responsible intake decisions so critical.
Every animal that enters the facility becomes a long term responsibility, not a temporary one.
Meet Crookie
One animal who represents that commitment is Crookie, ID number 771813, an 8 year old resident who has been at the shelter for over two years.
She takes time to warm up, but once she does, her personality begins to show. Crookie does well with other older dogs and would likely thrive in a calm, patient home.
Animals like Crookie are exactly why the no kill model matters. Without that commitment, those who need more time would be far less likely to receive it.
A Community Effort
The work being done at Jefferson County Animal Control is not just about housing animals, it is about providing quality care while creating opportunities for adoption.
But that work depends heavily on the community.
Adoptions, volunteering, and awareness all play a role in making the no kill model sustainable.
For animals like Crookie, the difference comes down to someone willing to look beyond the enclosure and give them the time they need to become part of a home.
Jefferson County Animal Control
Animal Resource Center
Address:
4848 State Route 30
House Springs, MO 63051
Current Donation Needs
The shelter welcomes community donations that
help care for animals while they wait for adoption.
- Blankets
- Towels
- Dog and cat toys
- Treats
- Greenies Pill Pockets
Greenies Pill Pockets help staff give medication safely
and easily to animals in their care.
Interested in helping?
Donations, adopters, and community support all make a difference
for animals waiting for homes.
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