Adopt and Make a Difference
BARC, Houston's Animal Shelter and Adoption Center, is hosting a special event to encourage pet adoptions and help reduce the number of animals in their care.
By adopting a pet from BARC during the 'Empty the Shelters' campaign, you are not only giving an animal a loving home but also helping to reduce the strain on the shelter's resources. Each adoption makes a significant impact and contributes to the overall goal of reducing the number of homeless pets in Houston.
The City of Houston's animal shelter, BARC, is waiving adoption fees for kittens, adult cats, and dogs as part of the 'Empty the Shelters' campaign, which will last until July 31st. This initiative, sponsored by the Bissell Pet Foundation and Cathy Bissell, aims to reduce the number of homeless pets by facilitating adoptions.
Here’s all the details from BARC’s Facebook post dated July 5th, 2024:
Dogs five months or older - FREE
All cats and kittens - FREE
Puppies four months or younger - $25
All PURRFURRED pets - FREE
A Quarterly Lifeline for Pets
The 'Empty the Shelters' campaign takes place once every quarter. During this period, adoption fees for all pets are waived or significantly discounted. This quarter, while adoption fees for most pets are waived, puppy adoption fees have been reduced to just $25.
The Importance of Spaying and Neutering
Adoptable pets at BARC are typically spayed/neutered, microchipped, vaccinated, and have a pet registration. These measures are essential for controlling the pet population and ensuring the health and well-being of the animals. The numbers underscore the importance of responsible pet ownership.
According to the BARC City of Houston Report for May, the shelter began the month with 702 dogs, 404 puppies, 134 adult cats, and 848 kittens. By month's end, they had taken in 677 dogs, 457 puppies, 221 cats, and 696 kittens from various sources. Of those, 239 dogs and puppies and 92 cats and kittens were euthanized due to the overwhelming intake numbers. We pulled these numbers directly from BARC. You’ll see all the details by going to this link: https://www.houstontx.gov/barc/stats-reports.html
A Growing Need
In 2023, BARC saw over 19,000 intakes for cats and dogs, compared to a little over 16,000 in 2022. Currently, the shelter has more than 350 dogs and 109 cats ready for adoption. As an open intake shelter, BARC does not turn away any animals, including those that are sick or injured. They have also introduced an open intake day on Sundays from noon to 2 PM for people to bring in strays without an appointment.
Be a Responsible Pet Owner
The data highlights the critical need for responsible pet ownership. Spaying and neutering pets can significantly reduce the number of animals that end up in shelters like BARC. Pet owners are encouraged to take proactive steps in caring for their pets, including regular vet visits, vaccinations, and ensuring their pets are spayed or neutered.
BARC's Special Adoption Programs
Houston City Beat is shining a light on three of BARC's outstanding programs that offer reduced or waived adoption fees, in addition to the July ‘Empty the Shelters’ drive. These programs make it easier for Houstonians to find their perfect pet companions.
Veteran Companion Program:
In a heartfelt tribute to our Veterans and active Military members, BARC waives adoption fees every day under the Veteran Companion Program. All you need to do is present proof of service or a military ID at the time of adoption.
Senior 4 Senior Promotion:
Through the Senior 4 Senior promotion, BARC offers no adoption fees for pets aged two years or older. For those looking to adopt younger pets, standard adoption fees will apply.
PURRFURRED Pets:
BARC staff have specially selected certain animals as PURRFURRED pets to help them find forever homes quickly. Adoption fees for these select pets are always reduced, making it easier for them to join loving families.
The Details
For more information on the 'Empty the Shelters' campaign and to view adoptable pets, visit BARC’s website. Join the movement, adopt a pet, and be a part of the solution in creating a community that values and cares for its animal companions.
For more details on these programs and other BARC initiatives, visit Houston City Beat's latest article on BARC.
BARC Details:
Address: 3300 Carr St Houston TX 77026
Website: https://www.houstontx.gov/barc
Hours: Tuesday - Sunday 12pm - 5pm
