To address that, the Bastrop County Animal Services and Shelter team will host a series of adoption events—including the sixth annual Fall Furry Fundraiser.
The details
The adoption events will happen throughout the cities of Bastrop and Elgin, during which people can meet their potential new furry family members."Our shelter is overflowing with adorable puppies looking for their forever homes," said Heydy Alpizar, shelter photographer and kennel technician. "There’s no shortage of wagging tails and puppy kisses waiting for you."
Upcoming events include:
- Oct. 5: Tractor Supply Bastrop, 437 Hwy. 71, Bastrop, from 11 a.m.-2 p.m
- Oct. 5: Lost Pines Toyota, 806 Hwy. 71 W., Bastrop, from 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
- Oct. 19: Whole Pets Market, 475 Hwy. 71, Bastrop, from 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
- Oct. 24-26: Elgin Hogeye Festival, Fleming Community Center, 802 N. Ave. C., Elgin, from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
What's happening
Wendy Ballard, Bastrop County Animal Services coordinator, said the team is also offering an Empty the Shelter campaign through Oct. 15.
"We are having $20 adoptions, and our goal is to empty the shelter or at least get as close as we possibly can," Ballard said. "They come fixed, microchipped, vaccinated, dewormed, and have been tested and are on flea, tick and heartworm prevention."
Prospective adopters can browse online to see available pets waiting for a loving family.
From there, Ballard said they can click on the pet's photo and fill out an adoption application, or call 512-549-5160 to arrange a time to meet the pet in person.
What else?
The team will also host the sixth annual Fall Furry Fundraiser on Nov. 9 from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at the shelter, 589 Cool Water Drive, Bastrop.
The family-friendly event will raise money through monetary donations, raffles and a silent auction, Ballard said.
Some of the activities that day will include:
- Kids zone
- Pony photo booth
- Petting zoo
- Cake walk
- Food trucks
- Craft vendors
- Sweet treats
Lend a hand
Those unable to attend the fundraiser can always help by providing a direct monetary donation or ordering much-needed items through the shelter's Amazon Wish List.
Another way is to volunteer time, Ballard said. Volunteers can assist in multiple capacities at the shelter, including being dog walkers, kennel assistants, adoption event assistants, cattery companions and greeters, helping with transportation and more.
Fostering is great way to help combat the growing homeless pet population, Ballard added.
Foster parents help by caring for orphaned puppies and kittens who need to be bottle fed and/or are not yet fully vaccinated, or fully grown pets who just need a place to stay until a rescue is available.
