Manatee County Animal Welfare Begins Transition to Bishop Campus with Temporary Service Changes
Manatee County Animal Welfare is preparing for a major transition as operations shift from its longtime Palmetto shelter to the Bishop campus, marking a new chapter in how the county provides care for animals.
The Palmetto facility, which has served the community for decades, is beginning a phased transition that will take place over the coming weeks. Officials say the move is aimed at improving services and enhancing the overall care environment for animals.
Adoptions at the Palmetto shelter remain open for a limited time, offering residents an opportunity to adopt pets before the transition period begins. From March 22 through March 27, adoptions and Doggy Day Out programs will be temporarily paused to accommodate the move. Adoptions are expected to resume at the Bishop campus on Saturday, March 28.
During the transition, the Animal Medical Center at the Bishop location will continue operating under normal hours, with priority given to emergency intake cases and lost or found pets. Field services will be limited to emergency calls only, while Cat Town in Bradenton will remain open and operating as usual.
As part of new initiatives tied to the transition, up to 20 dogs will participate in a partnership program with the Manatee County Jail. The program is designed to provide dogs with daily care, structure, and socialization while they await adoption.
Officials are encouraging the community to support the transition by adopting or fostering animals. Short-term foster placements are especially helpful in reducing the number of animals that need to be relocated during the move.
The transition of a full shelter operation is a complex process, and timelines may shift as needed. County staff indicated that updates and improvements will continue as the Bishop campus becomes fully operational.
Community members are encouraged to stay informed as the transition progresses, with additional updates expected in the coming weeks.
