Last week at the Hays County Commissioners Court, Lee Ann Shenefiel, Austin Pets Alive! executive advisor gave an update on the progress towards the Center for Pet Resources, Education and Research.
The goal is to use resources in the most effective and efficient way to get the best outcomes for people and pets using the 2022 feasibility study written by Dr. Sara Pizano of Team Shelter USA.
“Programs that focus on addressing the root causes of why dogs and cats end up in shelters in the first place are essential. We will find ways for the most vulnerable pet owners to access resources like spay, neuter and pet identification,” Shenefiel said.
The APA! approach is to direct resources into the community and increase collaboration with human service organizations to not only ease the burden on animal shelters but to also leverage the human-animal bond for better human mental and physical health outcomes.
Local stakeholders — including Mayor Jane Hughson, members of PAWS Shelter of Central Texas, Prevent A Litter and Wimberley Adoption Group — met with Shenefiel at the historic courthouse to weigh in on the project.
Hays County Chief of Staff Alex Villalobos was also in attendance and said, “I’m excited to see this paradigm shift on animal protection and welfare that will lead our state.”
Community outreach to all corners of the county is slated to start soon. Hays County Judge Ruben Becerra added, “We will find ways for the community to connect with educational opportunities about caring for their pets, increase the community’s capacity to care for pets safely and humanely, and ensure everyone feels safe and comfortable engaging with a pet resource center. It’s exciting that Hays County is leading the way nationally with this new approach to animal welfare.”
