If you’re a resident of Houston and come across a stray dog, it’s quite natural to feel a surge of empathy for the furry friend. But who do you call? This question can often leave you feeling stumped. Let’s journey together through this comprehensive guide on who to call to pick up stray dogs in Houston and ensure they find the right help.
Table of Contents
- Local Animal Control Agencies
- Animal Shelters
- Rescue Groups
- How to Handle Stray Dogs
- Initiatives and Laws
- Frequently Asked Questions
Key Takeaways
- Local animal control agencies are your first point of contact
- Animal shelters can provide temporary care to stray dogs
- Rescue groups work towards rehoming stray dogs
- It’s important to know how to handle stray dogs safely
- Houston has initiatives and laws in place to deal with stray dogs
Local Animal Control Agencies
The first point of call when you find a stray dog should be your local animal control agency. In Houston, that would be the Bureau of Animal Regulation and Care (BARC). Their primary function is to ensure the safety of the public and the wellbeing of animals in the city.
BARC responds to reports of stray dogs, loose dangerous dogs, as well as cases of animal cruelty. They also provide services such as vaccinations, microchipping, and spaying/neutering.
The agency has a dedicated phone line for reporting stray animals and other animal-related emergencies.
Animal Shelters
Animal shelters offer temporary homes for stray dogs until they are either claimed by their owners or adopted into new homes. In Houston, one of the leading shelters is the Houston SPCA.
They operate an animal ambulance service for injured strays and accept strays brought in by the public. They strive to provide these animals with medical care, shelter, and necessary rehabilitation and adoption services.
Another notable shelter is the Houston Humane Society, which offers a safe haven for stray animals and works towards their rehabilitation and adoption.
Rescue Groups
Rescue groups work tirelessly to ensure stray dogs aren’t left to fend for themselves. They are usually breed-specific or may focus on rescuing dogs with special needs. In Houston, organizations like Rescue Bank and Lone Star Shih Tzu and Lhasa Apso Rescue are making commendable efforts in this area.
How to Handle Stray Dogs
While it’s natural to want to help a stray dog, it’s also important to know how to handle this situation safely. Here are some steps to follow:
- Approach with caution: Stray dogs may be scared or aggressive. Always approach them slowly and gently to avoid startling them.
- Use a leash: If you have a leash, loop it around the dog’s neck to keep them secure.
- Call for help: Contact your local animal control agency or a local rescue group.
- Provide comfort and care: If you can, provide the stray with food, water, and shelter until help arrives.
Initiatives and Laws
In Houston, there are several initiatives and laws in place to help stray dogs. One such initiative is the Healthy Pets Healthy Streets program, which provides free spay/neutering services to reduce the stray dog population.
The city also has laws pertaining to the handling, treatment, and ownership of dogs. For more information, you can visit the City of Houston Municipal Code.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What should I do if I find a stray dog?
First and foremost, call your local animal control agency or a local rescue group. If it’s safe, you can also provide some immediate care like food, water, and shelter, while waiting for help to arrive.
2. Can I keep a stray dog that I found?
In Houston, you’re required by law to report a found stray to your local animal control agency. After a certain holding period, if the dog’s original owner doesn’t claim them, you may be able to adopt the dog.
3. How can I help reduce the stray dog population in Houston?
You can help by adopting dogs from shelters or rescue groups, volunteering your time or resources to these organizations, and advocating for responsible pet ownership, which includes spaying/neutering pets.
Remember, every small action can make a big difference in the life of a stray dog. Let’s join hands to ensure the wellbeing of our furry friends in Houston.
