DENVER — The Denver Department of Public Health and Environment (DDPHE) has proposed $217,000 in cuts to Denver Animal Protection's 2026 budget as the City of Denver looks to shore up its multi-million-dollar budget shortfall.

Last month, Denver Mayor Mike Johnston laid out his 2026 budget proposal , which included millions in budget cuts.

This week, city departments are presenting their 2026 budget proposals to the Denver City Council, which must approve the final budget.

DDPHE presented its plan on Tuesday, which includes $217,000 in cuts to Denver Animal Protection (DAP). The shelter is projecting 12,547 intakes in 2026 — a record for DAP.

“You will notice that some of our cuts will have an impact," DDPHE executive director Karin McGowan said during Tuesday's presentation. "We are

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