AUSTIN, Texas — For nearly four decades, PAWS Shelter of Central Texas has been a lifeline for vulnerable animals across Hays County and surrounding areas. But now, the Kyle-based shelter is facing a financial crisis that could force it to shut its doors.

Rising operational costs– from maintenance and payroll to basic upkeep– have pushed the nonprofit to the brink.

"It’s extremely expensive,” said Jorge Valdespino, Board Secretary of PAWS Central Texas. “And that's the– part of the big reason that we've made this decision. It's not just having dogs. It's all the operational costs.”

After initially announcing a temporary closure, an outpouring of community support inspired the shelter to change course. PAWS is now working to raise $200,000 by the end of October in a last-ditch effort to

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