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Shelter Workers Struggle With Having To Put Animals Down

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DALLAS (CBS11) - The City of Dallas euthanized 9,190 dogs last year, even before the city's plan to get more loose dogs off the streets with sweeps in target areas like South Dallas.

Sometimes employees with Dallas Animal Services will be forced to put down nearly 100 animals in a day.

"The most I've done… is 78," said Andrew Sanchez.

The life-long animal lover started with DAS four years ago.

"I love them. I love animals. They're my everything," said Sanchez.

He's one of dozens of employees who rotate for their turn to euthanize for the day. Sanchez says his turn comes up every few weeks.

"It's hard. It's difficult," said Sanchez. "It's the hard part of the job."

DAS officials say the summer months will be there busiest time for intake of animals and putting many down.

They say the best practice to for the pet owners in Dallas is to get their animals spayed or neutered.

Here is a list of organizations that can help pet owners properly care for their dogs or cats, in some cases, for free or for a reduced fee:

Dallas Animal Services

Dallas Companion Animal Project

Hillside Veterinary Clinic

Spay Neuter Network

SPCA

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