We’ve awarded two new grants to adoption groups working to save Houston’s most vulnerable animals: Stray and abandoned cats and dogs, and special-needs cats in shelters that are desperate to free up cages.
S.A.V.E. Rescue Coalition: $3,000
The Santa Fe, TX-based rescue group is working frantically to catch the many stray animals who will not be able to survive in the flooded streets. “Just yesterday I personally picked up two dogs and a litter of kittens, and we are taking a litter of five puppies from an abandoned building today,” says Director Angela McGhee. The group is also bringing found, but possibly owned, animals to local shelters to give them the best chance of being reunited with their owners, and pulling equal numbers of those shelters’ adoptable pets to ensure they are not euthanized to open up cages. Many of S.A.V.E.’s own healthy, adoptable pets are being transported to rescue groups in Northern states to open up spots in S.A.V.E. foster homes for Harvey strays.
Grant funds will be used to vet all incoming pets according to S.A.V.E.’s strict intake protocols, which include full vaccinations, spay/neuter and, as is nearly almost necessary, heartworm treatment.
Felines & Canines: $3,000
“We are rescuing at least 100 cats from animal-control shelters in Texas that have been devastated by Hurricane Harvey,” says Kelly Thompson, director of development at the Chicago shelter. “Our focus is on those cats who are being left behind due to age/injury/illness/FIV+ status.
“As one of the most recognized shelters in the nation for our FIV+ cat program, as well as for our proven record of success with special-needs cats, we were asked if we would commit to taking these animals from the facilities in Texas that are not receiving adequate assistance. We were informed that the vast majority of groups are willing to welcome dogs and kittens into their programs, but the special-needs and senior cats have been significantly more challenging to place into rescue. We have made that commitment.” Funds will be used to provide veterinary care for all 100 cats.
