City of Austin

The City of Austin announced today that Monica Dangler will be the new Director of Austin Animal Services. Dangler, who was selected after a national search, officially assumes the title on February 2, 2026. 

Dangler brings more than 15 years of experience in animal sheltering and most recently served as an Executive Leadership Consultant at the Riverside County Department of Animal Services in California. There she created a strategic plan, implementing data-driven decision-making systems and strengthened alignment between field, shelter and community programs.

“Animal Services is at a critical moment for our community,” said City Manager T.C. Broadnax. “I am confident that Ms. Dangler will be a strong leader who will steward the City’s commitment to animal welfare, implement the department’s 5-year strategic plan, and bring together regional animal welfare partners so that we may build a more respectful, collaborative ecosystem to improve the care and well-being of animals in our community.” 

With a strong background in managing volunteer programs and coordinating adoption and fundraising events, Dangler has dedicated her work to helping large public animal service agencies improve operational systems, build strong community partnerships and increase positive outcomes in animal shelters.

“I am honored to join the City of Austin and Austin Animal Services at such an important moment,” said Monica Dangler. “Austin is a national leader in lifesaving and community engagement, and I look forward to working alongside staff, volunteers, partners and residents to build on that foundation through thoughtful, data-driven strategies that support our teams and improve outcomes for animals and the people who care about them.”

During her time as Director of Pima Animal Care Center in Tucson, Arizona, Dangler and her team cared for more than 19,000 animals annually and achieved a 92% live-release rate. She returns to the Austin area after previously serving as Director of PAWS Shelter of Central Texas in Kyle where she doubled adoptions.