Organization rescues and shelters dogs for adoption

Sharon Mosher has a passion for saving dogs and finding permanent homes for them. Since 1988, when she helped found P.A.L.S. of Katy—now South Texas Animal Adoption Resource, or STAAR—more than 4,000 abandoned, abused and stray animals have been rescued, cared for and placed with families in southeast Texas.

"We are a no-kill adoption agency and sanctuary for dogs," said Mosher, the director of STAAR. "We have a 32-animal capacity and we take in new dogs as some go out [to permanent homes], although if an emergency arises, we'll make it work."

Initially the program was geared toward providing foster homes for dogs, but a shelter program was initiated as the number of dogs increased. STAAR focuses on rehabilitating dogs—many of whom have become afraid of people—so they can be united with families interested in adopting.

STAAR works with a number of no-kill groups that assist a variety of animals and specialty dog breeds. For example, cat rescues and adoptions are referred to Adopt A Cat.

Rather than being caged, rescued dogs are housed in long dog runs where they have ample space to exercise.

"We have a barn-type situation, with sandy floors indoors so they can jump and play without damaging their joints," Mosher said. "Each day the dogs go out in groups on our two acres of land to have outdoor play time."

Despite a fire two years ago that resulted in a total loss of the barn, STAAR has rebuilt and moved forward with help from its donors in the community.

"Everything is lovely again," Mosher said.

Mosher said STAAR is fully funded by donations. The major expense is feeding the animals, particularly those with special dietary needs as a result of diabetes or allergies. Individuals interested in sponsoring a rescued dog can support it with a donation of $25 each month to support food and medical expenses.

"Donations can mean the difference between a dog dying out on the street or getting to come here and live the life of Riley," she said.

STAAR relies on volunteer labor to run the program. Volunteers help clean the dog runs, perform yard maintenance, screen people interested in adopting, assist in fundraising and promotional work and play with and groom the dogs.

"We know all our dogs well—they are all well socialized, and they are all loved," Mosher said.

How to help:

STAAR needs volunteers to provide a variety of assistance, including:

• Weekend adoption programs
• Fundraising, donations and promotional work
• Renovating the organization's website
• Maintenance of the dog runs and the two-acre yard

STAAR, P.O. Box 6575, Katy, 281-392-0927, www.staarnet.org