SE Texas Times

October is recognized as Adopt-A-Shelter-Dog Month, a period designated by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals to raise awareness about dogs in need of homes and to encourage adoptions. According to the Humane Society of the United States, animal shelters care for approximately 6.3 million dogs and cats annually across the country, with 920,000 being euthanized. Adopting a dog can significantly improve its quality of life and help alleviate overcrowding in shelters.

In the Coastal Bend area, several adoption centers offer opportunities for those interested in adopting a dog. The Gulf Coast Humane Society, founded in 1945 as the Gulf Coast Humane Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, is located at 3118 Cabaniss Parkway, Corpus Christi, Texas. They can be contacted at (361) 225-0845. Corpus Christi Animal Care Services also offers dogs for adoption and holds unmarked strays without identification for three days.

Peewee’s Pet Adoption World & Sanctuary is another local nonprofit no-kill shelter dedicated to rescuing small animals. It is located at 1307 Saratoga, Corpus Christi, Texas, and can be reached at (361) 888-4141.

The Port Aransas Animal Shelter was established in 1987 following fundraising efforts through fishing tournaments. Located at 403 W. Cotter Avenue, it receives support from Animal Friends of Port Aransas, a nonprofit organization providing care and re-homing services. Their contact number is (361) 749-5941.

The Humane Society & Adoption Center of Rockport-Fulton (HSAC), founded in 1988 at 1308 Myrtle St., Fulton, Texas, offers various facilities including fenced yards for dogs and cattery rooms. They are available at (361) 729-8186.

Additional options for adopting pets include For the Love of Strays, Mission: Pawsible, The Cattery Cat Shelter, and Coastal Bend Small Breed Rescue.

State Representative Todd Hunter encourages individuals with questions regarding this information or any other concerns related to Texas state agencies or constituent services to reach out to his offices at Capitol Office (512-463-0672) or District Office (361-949-4603). He represents Aransas County and part of Nueces County and can be contacted via email at todd.hunter@house.texas.gov.