Hillsborough Pet Shelter Funding in Jeopardy as County Eyes $800M Stadium Deal

More than 2,000 Hillsborough County residents signed a petition urging county officials to move forward with plans for a new Pet Resource Center. The community push comes as the county considers an $800 million commitment toward a new Tampa Bay Rays stadium, raising concerns that funding for the pet shelter could be sidelined.

The current Pet Resource Center, a 40-year-old facility on Falkenburg Road, operates as the county’s sole open-admission shelter. This means it accepts all animals, including strays, hoarding cases, owner surrenders, and abused animals. Advocates highlight significant issues with the aging building. It has flooded during storms, and most kennels lack proper air conditioning and heat. They also point to an outdated veterinary clinic and limited space for isolating sick animals and performing surgeries.

More than $30 million had already been allocated for the new pet shelter project. Advocates support the stadium but worry about the pet shelter's funding.

County officials are evaluating whether to upgrade the existing facility or construct a new one. They expect to make a recommendation by the end of 2026 or early 2027. A county budget meeting took place last Thursday, September 17, where advocates planned to lobby for the shelter funding to remain in the budget.