Just like us, wildlife seeks refuge from the cold. You can assist by creating shelters or ensuring that existing ones are in good condition. This could involve setting up birdhouses or even leaving natural debris like fallen leaves and branches in your yard to create hiding spots for small animals.

Food can be scarce during winter, and providing a reliable source can make a significant difference. Set up bird feeders with high-energy seeds and suet. Additionally, leave bowls of fresh, unfrozen water out for birds and other critters. Remember to check and refill these regularly.

De-icing agents and chemicals used on driveways and sidewalks can be harmful to wildlife. Instead, utilize pet-safe de-icing products, and when possible, use non-toxic alternatives like sand or kitty litter. This helps prevent wildlife from ingesting harmful substances as they forage for food.

Remember, If you come across injured or distressed wildlife, contact the Wildlife Center of Texas for guidance. We have the expertise to assess the situation and, if necessary, provide the care needed to rehabilitate the animal.   And lastly, the best way to keep wildlife safe is by spreading awareness about the needs of wildlife during winter. Encourage your community to take similar steps to create a more wildlife-friendly environment.

By taking these simple yet impactful steps, you can play a vital role in supporting Houston’s wildlife during the winter season. Every action, no matter how small, contributes to creating a more hospitable environment for the creatures that share our city. Together, we can make a positive difference in the lives of Houston’s wild residents during the chilly months.

To donate to support local wildlife, HERE.

The post Caring For Wildlife In The Winter appeared first on Houston SPCA.

As the holiday season approaches, the spirit of giving comes alive, and what better way to spread joy than by supporting our furry friends at the Houston SPCA? Whether you’re a longtime supporter or looking for ways to make a difference during this festive season, here are several heartwarming ways you can give back.

Monetary Donations

The simplest and most impactful way to contribute is through monetary donations. Your generosity allows us to provide essential care, medical attention, and a comfortable environment for the animals in our care. Visit our website or drop by our campus to make a donation that truly makes a difference.

Become a Monthly Donor

For sustained impact, become a monthly donor, providing consistent support to cover ongoing expenses. Even modest, regular contributions accumulate to make a significant difference in the lives of our animal companions.

Wish List

Explore our Wish List to discover specific items that can bring joy to the animals under our care. This holiday season, we need essentials like blankets, toys, and non-clumping cat litter. Your contribution, big or small, adds a touch of warmth to the lives of these animals.

Adopt A Pet

Consider opening your heart and home to a new furry family member. The holiday season is an ideal time to give the gift of a loving home to an animal in need. Visit our Adoption Center and make this holiday season extra special by adopting a loving companion.

Join our Foster Family

Spread holiday cheer by joining our Foster Family. Providing a temporary home for pets in need not only eases the burden on our campus but also offers these animals a cozy environment during the festive season.

One of our fosters bringing in her foster kittens for a check-up

Volunteer Your Time

Give the gift of your time by volunteering. Whether assisting with daily tasks, participating in events, or helping with the adoption process, volunteers play a vital role in enriching the lives of our animals.

Corporate Giving

Encourage your workplace to get involved in corporate giving. Corporate sponsorships, partnerships, or hosting holiday-themed fundraisers can significantly impact our ability to care for animals throughout the year.

Chevron and Hines during their corporate volunteer day.

Spread the Word

The Houston SPCA relies solely on the generosity of kind donors, so even the smallest contribution can make a difference. You can help raise awareness about our cause by utilizing the power of social media. Share our stories, events, and the significance of pet adoption with your loved ones to inspire them to give back as well. Your voice can make a huge impact and encourage others to join in the spirit of giving!

This holiday season, let’s unite to make a difference in the lives of animals at the Houston SPCA. Whether through financial support, adopting a new family member, or volunteering your time, every act of kindness creates a brighter future for these furry friends. Visit our website to explore more ways to give and bring warmth and joy to the holidays for humans and animals alike. Thank you for being a part of our compassionate community!

The post Ways To Give This Holiday Season appeared first on Houston SPCA.

The event will kick off its weekend schedule on Friday, November 24, and run through December 10. Following that, from Friday, December 15, until December 23, the joyous display will be a daily delight for pet enthusiasts and holiday shoppers alike.

As the official start to the holiday shopping season unfolds, Neiman Marcus will open its doors at 9 a.m. to a world of enchantment. The newly designed holiday storefront windows will come to life with the playful antics of adoptable puppies and kittens. These furry friends, part of the Houston SPCA’s adoption program, will be prancing and playing, adding a touch of warmth and joy to the city’s most cherished holiday tradition.

For those eager to connect with these lovable companions, small dogs available for adoption will be taken on strolls around Neiman Marcus. Shoppers can indulge in meet-and-greets, forming connections that might lead to a loving home for these charming canines.

The Houston SPCA is offering adoption packages valued at around $500. These packages include the essentials for a happy and healthy pet: a microchip, spay or neuter surgery, up-to-date vaccinations, and even a free sample-sized bag of Hill’s Science Diet. While the specific pets available may vary at Neiman Marcus, a comprehensive list of all adoptable pets from the Houston SPCA can be found HERE.

The post Neiman Marcus Adopts The Houston SPCA For Its 35th Holiday Season appeared first on Houston SPCA.

Although it may be tempting to share the Thanksgiving joy with your pets by giving them a treat from the table, it’s best to resist the urge. Many Thanksgiving staples, such as onions, garlic, and certain herbs, can be toxic to pets. Rich and fatty foods like turkey skin and gravy can also cause digestive issues like pancreatitis. It’s best to stick to their regular pet food to keep their tummies happy and healthy.

While turkey bones might seem like a delightful treat for your pets, they pose serious risks. Cooked bones can splinter, causing choking hazards or internal damage. Dispose of bones safely in a covered trash bin, far from your pet’s reach. If you want to treat them with a special snack, consider pet-safe treats designed for their consumption.

Dr.Westbrook dives into more detail about how you can keep your pet safe on Thanksgiving!

Thanksgiving desserts often contain ingredients like chocolate, nuts, and artificial sweeteners, which can be toxic to pets. Chocolate, in particular, contains theobromine, a harmful substance to dogs. Ensure that desserts are stored securely and away from curious paws. If you want to treat your pet, choose pet-safe treats or make a unique, pet-friendly dessert.

If you’re preparing a vegetable dish, make sure to set aside a pet-friendly portion before adding any potentially dangerous ingredients. Plain, cooked vegetables like sweet potatoes or green beans can make a safe and nutritious addition to your pet’s holiday meal.

Let’s extend our gratitude to our furry friends this Thanksgiving by ensuring their safety during the holiday feast. By being mindful of the foods they consume and offering them special, pet-friendly treats, we can make Thanksgiving a delightful and safe celebration for our entire family. After all, nothing beats the joy of sharing the holiday season with those we love, both human and furry alike.

The post How To Ensure A Safe Thanksgiving For Your Pet appeared first on Houston SPCA.

None of this would have been possible without the dedicated support of our volunteers, who tirelessly dedicated their time and efforts to ensure the seamless execution of the clinic. We thank the Vet Tech Institute of Houston, the University of Houston Downtown, and Target Hunger Houston for their invaluable contributions and unwavering support. Their commitment to the welfare of our community is commendable, and we are grateful for their partnership in making this event a success.

As we wrap up this memorable day, we look forward to continuing to support and nurture the bond between pets and their families. We are grateful for the opportunity to serve our community and remain committed to providing continued support and care in the days to come. With the success of this clinic, we reaffirm our belief in the power of collective action and the impact it can have on the lives of those we hold dear—our pets and the people they bring joy to.

The post Houston SPCA Hosts a Successful Pet Vaccine Clinic in Acres Home! appeared first on Houston SPCA.

For every punt that lands inside the 20-yard line during a Texans football game, Johnston and Tia will generously sponsor the adoption fee for a dog in need. So far, the two have covered adoption fees for over 100 dogs!

If you visit our Adoption Center, make sure to look for the dogs with the Texans Kennel Card.

Swipe to see this year’s line-up so far!

The post Punts For Houston SPCA Kicks Off Once Again! appeared first on Houston SPCA.

Tripawd pets often require specific accommodations to ensure their physical well-being. Simple adjustments, such as providing a supportive and comfortable bed, ensuring a balanced diet, and engaging in appropriate exercise, are crucial for maintaining their overall health.

When Mabel first came into our care, she had a severe leg injury which resulted in a hind leg amputation. She has since recovered and has found a loving new home!

Creating a safe and accessible living space is imperative for Tripawd pets. We recommend removing obstacles and creating an uncluttered environment to facilitate easy movement. Using ramps or stairs can assist them in accessing higher surfaces while ensuring that the floor surface is suitable for their mobility is equally essential.

The emotional well-being of Tripawd pets is equally important. Providing ample love, attention, and mental stimulation can contribute to their overall happiness. We stress the significance of positive reinforcement and patience during the training process, fostering a sense of confidence and security in your pet’s abilities.

Seeking guidance from professionals and organizations specializing in mobility aids can assist in finding the most suitable resources for your pet’s specific needs. Educational workshops, seminars, and online resources can play a pivotal role in equipping pet owners with the necessary knowledge and understanding to provide the best possible care for their Tripawd companions.

Caring for a Tripawd pet demands patience, understanding, and a commitment to providing a loving and supportive environment. By following the insights shared, you can ensure that your Tripawd companion lives a fulfilling and joyful life, despite any physical limitations. With the right resources, community support, and a deep bond of companionship, you can make a remarkable difference in the life of your beloved pet!

To help support our cause, CLICK HERE.

The post Caring For Pets With A Disability: Tripawd appeared first on Houston SPCA.

Wildlife migration often stems from various factors, predominantly around the need for survival and sustenance. For many species, including birds, mammals, and more, the seasonal shift prompts a search for better feeding grounds, mating opportunities, or more hospitable climates. For instance, certain bird species migrate to avoid harsh winters, seeking warmer climates where food is more plentiful, while others migrate for mating purposes.

While wildlife migration season can be a breathtaking sight, we must be mindful of our impact on these creatures and their journey. Human activities, including deforestation, pollution, and habitat destruction, often disrupt these migration routes, leading to dire consequences for the animals.

Moreover, during migration season, it’s crucial to avoid disrupting the natural flow of wildlife. One way we can help migrants on their journey is by reducing overnight lighting, especially in tall buildings. When migrants are passing over big cities, the bright lights can cause them to become disoriented, causing them to crash into buildings or windows. Thus, Audubon’s Light Out Program was formed in an effort to reduce this problem.

Other ways to help include refraining from excessive noise, limiting outdoor activities in sensitive areas, and being cautious while driving, especially in areas known for high animal movement. By respecting their migratory paths and natural habitats, we can ensure the safety and well-being of these remarkable species.

Similar to humans, migratory birds require rest stops. For example, Houston is part of the Central Flyway bird migration group. Therefore, during migration season, we get a lot of visitors making a pitstop as they travel south for the winter.  

At the Wildlife Center of Texas, we play a pivotal role in protecting and rehabilitating wildlife during migration seasons. In the course of their journey, some migratory birds might sustain injuries. Our rescue and rehabilitation program is dedicated to ensuring their well-being and preparing them to continue their migration safely. Our initiatives not only help injured or distressed animals but also raise awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation among local communities.

As individuals, we can support these endeavors by volunteering, donating, or participating in educational programs. Additionally, we can take personal steps to reduce our ecological footprint, such as minimizing plastic usage, supporting sustainable practices, and advocating for wildlife-friendly policies in our communities.

Wildlife migration season serves as a poignant reminder of the incredible resilience and adaptability of the natural world. Understanding the motivations behind these awe-inspiring journeys and taking necessary precautions to safeguard these creatures are essential steps in preserving the delicate balance of our ecosystem. By actively supporting conservation efforts, we can ensure a sustainable future for wildlife and humanity. Let us all pledge to be conscientious custodians of our planet, preserving its wonders for future generations.

To DONATE, CLICK HERE.

The post Migration Season Is Officially Here appeared first on Houston SPCA.

The best way to keep squirrels and other wildlife safe on Halloween is by not leaving any harmful treats out that they can reach.

The best way to protect wildlife this Halloween season is by choosing environmentally friendly decorations that can be reused or recycled. Instead of plastic decorations, consider using biodegradable options or create decorations from recycled materials. By embracing sustainable options, we can prevent the accumulation of non-biodegradable waste that can harm wildlife habitats.

Avoid decorations with closed holes or loops. This limits the possibility of animals getting caught. Also, avoid decorations with small or dangling pieces that might look edible to wildlife. Be cautious of the use of fake spider webs, as they can be very dangerous to owls.

When driving, in addition to watching out for Trick or Treaters, be cautious of the Raccons or Opossums that may find themselves out in the streets due to being spooked.

If you decorate with pumpkins, be aware that it could attract wildlife. After the celebrations, compost your pumpkins to prevent them from ending in landfills. Additionally, be mindful of the candles used in Jack-o’-Lanterns, opting for LED lights instead to reduce the risk of fire hazards and protect wildlife from potential harm.

Lastly, Please do not leave candy where animals can get to it, and adequately discard wrappers.

As we indulge in the Halloween spirit, remember it’s our responsibility to protect our wildlife. By making mindful choices in our decorations and treats, we can ensure that our celebrations positively impact our wildlife!

To support The Texas Center of Wildlife, CLICK HERE.

The post How To Keep Wildlife Safe On Halloween appeared first on Houston SPCA.

Emphasizing the significance of community involvement, Jay Chase, Chief Cruelty Investigator at the Houston SPCA, highlighted the instrumental role of photographic and video evidence in expediting such rescue missions. “If you are able to safely obtain photos or video to report animal cruelty, it can be very useful against those who commit these crimes in public view,” remarked Chase, stressing the potential life-saving impact of such actions.

The Houston SPCA has since taken custody of the dog, ensuring its well-being under the vigilant care of our veterinary staff and support teams. Concurrently, an ongoing investigation is underway, with plans to present the case before a judge next week. Subjecting animals to abuse and neglect constitutes animal cruelty, a felony in Texas punishable by a maximum of two years in prison and a fine of $10,000.

In Harris County, the Houston SPCA’s 13-member animal cruelty investigations team collaborates with the Harris County Pct. 1 Constable’s Office and various other law enforcement agencies across nine surrounding counties, striving to rescue animals from cruelty across the region. Individuals are encouraged to report animal cruelty by contacting 713.869.7722 or submitting information online HERE.

The Houston SPCA operates as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, relying solely on donations, and maintains no affiliations with any other animal welfare organizations, locally or nationally.

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