From our green spaces to our music venues, Austinites have an unlimited list of reasons to be proud, but one thing we don't celebrate enough is our status as a no-kill city. Thanks to the amazing and ongoing work of Austin Pets Alive! (APA), Austin has been a no-kill city for over a decade, and the local nonprofit will be celebrating that milestone with a party on Tuesday, October 11.

A city reaches no-kill status by increasing its animal save rate to 90 percent or above. According to APA's website, Austin went from a kill-rate of 87 percent before 2008 to a 97 percent no-kill rate today. (The website also states that Austin is the largest no-kill city in the country, though Los Angeles may be giving us a run for the money now that it achieved no-kill status in March 2021.)

Austin is the longest-running no-kill city, thanks to the partnership between APA and the city's municipal shelter, Austin Animal Center. Austin officially reached no-kill status in 2011, which APA celebrates annually at its No-Kill Anniversary.

Taking place from 6-10 pm at the ABGB, this year's family-friendly event will feature music, pet adoptions, and a first-ever results party for the official Mayor of Pawstin. The "primaries" started earlier this month, with members of the public donating to narrow down the election pool to just one remaining candidate per "pawty," Fotis the dog and Mr. M the fine feline. On Tuesday night, the pet with the most donations will be crowned.

According to APA's website, the candidates "are animals currently in special need who are able to get their second chance thanks to APA!'s No Kill mission. When you give in support of your favorite candidate, you’ll help these pets, and so many others like them, get the loving care they deserve."

Proceeds from the event itself will also benefit APA! with "No-Kill Supporter" ($40) ticket holders getting access to the main event, indoor live music, and a special mug from the ABGB, as well as two drink tickets and two raffle tickets. $100 VIP tickets are also still available, granting additional access to the exclusive taproom lounge with a puppy/kitten party and full swag bag.

Head to APA to buy tickets and meet your meoworal candidates or mayoral canine-didates.