“We’ve probably had about 16 pets come in so far,” said Barbara Vass, adoption coordinator for Fort Bend County Animal Services. “The [flood] situation is still fluid, so what we’ve been trying to do is have people foster animals we have already so we can open some space for the ones brought in.”
Vass said the shelter also received 100 pet rats and is expecting many more pets to arrive at the shelter in the coming days.
Rene Vasquez, director of the Fort Bend County Animal Shelter, with a dog dropped off at the shelter after flooding in the county.[/caption]“We’re anticipating a lot more once people return to their [flooded] homes,” Vass said.
Anyone who fosters a pet can expect to house the animal for about two weeks, Vass said, and the guardian has the option to return it to the county shelter or permanently adopt the pet.
The animal shelter is in urgent need of a wide range of supplies, including pet food, wire cages, blankets, towels, Capstar brand flea medication, bleach, laundry detergent and assorted medical supplies.
“We had a tremendous response with food donations,” Vass said. “It’s been amazing. We’ve received hundreds of bags of pet food.”
Vass said one particular food need the shelter seeks is pumpkin puree for animals with digestive problems from the flood.
“The animals are going to be drinking flood water,” she said. “Who knows what they come across [and eat] to try to survive.”
The animal shelter accepts cats, dogs and other house pets, but livestock and wild animals are prohibited, Vass said. She recommended that anyone who encounters livestock or other animals should call the animal shelter or the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office.
Vass also said due to the high water, residents should be mindful of poisonous snakes and alligators moving out of flooded areas.
“Do not try to approach those animals,” she said.
Vass said several area businesses are accepting donations, including Patsy’s Pet Market, Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming and Waggin’ Tails Pet Ranch.
Alex McCray, co-owner of Patsy’s Pet Market in Katy, said the store has been receiving many telephone calls and questions about animal issues in relation to the flooding.
McCray said the store has already accepted numerous donations from customers and the public.
“Our philosophy is to support [the animal shelter] as best as we can,” McCray said.
