When many Houstonians think about local animal shelters, they think of BARC — that’s the city’s animal shelter. But, Harris County Animal Shelter may not be as well known. Nevertheless, we've received a few emails recently saying the shelter is underfunded, understaffed, and overcrowded. It’s an example of a larger problem in Greater Houston — overpopulation of stray animals.
Maggie Martin visits the Harris County Animal Shelter and Dr. Michael White, DVM, MS Director – Veterinary Public Health Division, to learn more about their operation and the challenges they face.
- Harris County Pets is temporarily waiving adoption fees and suspending some animal intake services amidst over-crowding and a staffing shortage at its shelter. (Photo Credit: Harris County Pets)
- Some kittens up for adoption at the Harris County Animal Shelter. (Photo Credit: Harris County Animal Shelter)
- A volunteer spends some quality time with a dog at the Harris County Animal Shelter. (Photo Credit: Harris County Animal Shelter)
- Volunteers at the Harris County Animal Shelter spend time with a couple dogs up for adoption. (Photo Credit: Harris County Animal Shelter)
- Volunteers at the Harris County Animal Shelter bathe puppies. (Photo Credit: Harris County Animal Shelter)
- A young girl holds a puppy at the Harris County Animal Shelter. (Photo Credit: Harris County Animal Shelter)
- Houston Matters producer Maggie Martin talks with Dr. Michael White at the Harris County Animal Shelter. (Photo Credit: Harris County Public Health Dept.)
