BY CASSANDRA JENKINS
The bright side
How to help
Houston Pets Alive! is a nonpro t that focuses on saving at-risk animals in the Greater Houston area. Executive Director Shannon Parker said 837 animals were adopted through the program last year. “This collaboration is a true team e ort,” she said, “and it shows what’s possible when organizations work side by side with a shared commitment to increasing adoptions and saving lives.”
Despite the shelter’s increase in euthanasia rates and underfunded budget, adoptions are still increasing, Stottlemyer said. In 2025, 5,765 animals were adopted—an 8% increase from 2024. Stottlemyer said the progress is due in large part to BARC’s memorandum of understanding with Houston Pets Alive! and their volunteer-led adop- tion counseling program that started in May.
Stottlemyer said that while the animal shelter continues to build on partnerships with the city and other nonpro ts, he wants to emphasize prevention strategies for residents, such as spay and neuter services, responsible pet ownership and access to community resources.
Resources & events
Vaccine & Microchip Clinic Houston Pet’s Alive! o ers free vaccines and $5 microchips. • Every Thursday, 9 a.m.-noon • 2800 Antoine Drive, Ste. 2854, Houston • www.houstonpetsalive.org Adopt-A Palooza Meet adoptable cats and dogs from shelters across Houston, with a $50 fee. • April 11, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. • 2800 Antoine Drive, Ste. 2854, Houston • www.houstonpetsalive.org
BARC adoption rates Despite rising euthanasia rates, animal adoption rates have started to increase in the last ve years.
In 2025, the animal shelter had a live release rate of 80.9%
9,037
7,722
5,765
4,493
3,387
2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
2025
SOURCE: BARC ANIMAL SHELTER COMMUNITY IMPACT
HOUSTON’S HEALTHCARE SAFETY NET FOR 60 YEARS.
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HEIGHTS RIVER OAKS MONTROSE EDITION
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