Dallas Animal Services is awaiting DNA test results for Toast, a pup whose species remains uncertain.
While on patrol, Dallas Police Department officers discovered Toast, a unique caramel-colored dog, near a dumpster.
Though it’s believed that Toast is a dog, there’s uncertainty regarding whether he’s a coyote pup or a domestic dog.
Image source: DALLAS ANIMAL SERVICES
After rescuing the dog, the police handed him over to Dallas Animal Services. To clarify Toast’s exact species, the shelter initiated a DNA test to discern if he was a domestic dog, a coyote, or another wild species.
The outcome, as detailed by KENS, will decide the appropriate home for the dog.
Last month, the shelter reported taking in 258 stray animals, with 168 dogs admitted over one weekend.
Image source: DALLAS ANIMAL SERVICES
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals notes that about 6.3 million pets are taken into U.S. animal shelters each year.
Of this figure, 4.1 million animals are adopted annually, but only 810,000 dogs and other pets that enter as strays are returned to their original owners.
Image source: DALLAS ANIMAL SERVICES
To reduce the chances of dogs going astray, the American Animal Hospital Association recommends several guidelines on its website. These include ensuring your dog is spayed or neutered, teaching dogs basic commands, and providing ample exercise opportunities.
