Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter receives $75,000 grant

The Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter received a $75,000 grant June 20 from the Petco Foundation for the shelter’s work in the community.

According to a news release from the shelter, the award was announced at the seventh annual Hope Gala at the Manchester Grand Hyatt in San Diego. The Williamson County Shelter was honored with the Paul Jolly Compassion Award, named for the foundation’s first executive director.

The award recognizes an organization that also made a significant, life-saving impact on animals, according to the news release. The Williamson County shelter has held a 90 percent save rate since October 2010, and was recognized as an open-intake shelter.

“Each year the Hope Gala allows us to shine a light on individuals and organizations that are doing incredible things to help animals,” said Susanne Kogut, the executive director of the Petco Foundation, in a statement.

“This night is a celebration of our shared love for animals, and our honorees perfectly exemplify what a powerful motivator love can be in creating impactful change,” she said. “We applaud the Williamson County Regional Animal Shelter for their continued commitment to helping animals live the lives they deserve.”

The Williamson County shelter will use the grant to expand its facility, according to the release. Cheryl Schneider, WCRAS animal services director, said she was thrilled the shelter was selected for this award because it honors the hours taken to save the lives of the homeless and abandoned animals in the community.

“We feel every pet that enters our shelter should get the best possible chance at a loving, forever home, and we couldn’t do it without the volunteers, donors, fosters, adopters and supporters,” she said.