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Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo visited the Houston Humane Society on July 9 as the clinic copes with impacts of the pandemic and overwhelmingly hot temperatures.
"Thank you @HoustonHumane for the tour and allowing me to spend time with some amazing pets and inspiring young leaders,” Hidalgo said. “We’re proud to work alongside you to protect the welfare of our furry friends."
Houston Human houses dogs, cats and horses, among various other animal species. Despite its crucial role related to the safety of domestic animals, the organization doesn't receive a cent from federal, state or local governments. Instead, it's dependent on donations, program services and special events to cover for the animals’ essentials, socialization, entertainment and training needs.
In an effort to file adoptions at a quicker rate, the organization has facilitated its adoption process and began offering promising discounts. Montgomery County Animal Shelter, for example, has reached its 800-animal capacity and reports that the majority of the bunch were brought in after June 1. The shelter is now waiving all adoption fees.
“We need adopters, fosters and rescue partners today,” a statement read. “We are now at a critical capacity point.”
The number of rescued animals has increased dramatically as a result of dangerously high temperatures and a 20% increase in pet abandonment amid the pandemic, a crime punishable by law. According to Houston Public Media, the extreme heat caused the death of at least two Houston-area dogs after they were left outdoors without access to water, food or shelter. Julie Kuenstle, vice president of communications for the Houston SPCA, urged owners to be mindful of their pets’ comfort level.
"It really is critical that people remember to bring your pets in at the hottest part of the day, which is not noon," Kuenstle said. "It's actually between 2 and 4."
Most recently, the shelter was obligated to undergo a temporary shutdown after findings of an additional threat to animal safety, a respiratory illness among dogs. The agency has reported 20 infections so far, HPM reported.
“BARC has decided to take immediate, preemptive measures to isolate the issue,” said the shelter's assistant director, Greg Damianoff. “Temporarily closing the shelter will allow BARC to focus our resources on treating sick animals and prevent further spread within the shelter population.”
The animal shelter and veterinary clinic affirms that it is "dedicated to, and working toward, ending cruelty, abuse and the overpopulation of animals while providing the highest quality of life to those brought to us for care."