Give Love, Get Love: Harris County Pets Offers Reduced Adoption Fees Oct. 1–15 During National 'Empty the Shelters' Event
October is Adopt a Shelter Dog Month, and Harris County Pets is inviting Houstonians to open their homes—and their hearts—by offering reduced adoption fees from October 1–15. The event is part of the national “Empty the Shelters”campaign, a program led by BISSELL Pet Foundation to help connect more pets with loving families.
A Local Push With National Impact
BISSELL Pet Foundation partners with more than 345 shelters across 42 states to reduce or even waive adoption fees, making the decision to bring home a dog or cat more accessible for families. Since its founding, the nonprofit has been dedicated to ending pet homelessness nationwide through large-scale adoption events, spay/neuter programs, and support for shelters on the front lines.
Harris County Pets, which provides adoption services, veterinary care, and animal control in unincorporated Harris County, is one of the participating shelters. Their staff sees firsthand how a simple act of adoption transforms not just the life of the animal, but also the household they join.
“Our goal is to connect pets with loving homes while helping community members live healthier, happier lives,” said Corey Steele, Director of Harris County Public Health’s Veterinary Public Health Division.
In 2024 alone, the Veterinary Public Health Division spayed or neutered more than 5,600 animals, facilitated over 4,000 adoptions, responded to nearly 30,000 service requests, rescued more than 1,300 animals, and sustained an impressive live release rate of 91.6%
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Adoption Details and Special Rates
Every pet adopted from Harris County Pets comes spayed or neutered, microchipped, fully vaccinated, and includes a one-year pet license. From October 1–15, fees are reduced to:
- Puppies: $60
- Dogs: $30
- Kittens: $25
- Cats: $10
Adoptions are available at the Harris County Pets Resource Center, located at 612 Canino Rd, Houston, TX 77076, with walk-in hours Monday through Friday from 1:00 to 5:30 p.m., and weekends from 11:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Appointments are not required. Available pets can also be browsed online at CountyPets.com.
Why Adopt? The Health Benefits of a Pet
Research shows that pets can do more than brighten your day—they can actually improve overall health.
Studies from UC Davis Health and Harvard Health suggest that pets help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, while easing feelings of loneliness. Dog owners in particular are more likely to meet weekly exercise recommendations, with many logging at least 150 minutes of activity through daily walks and playtime—benefits tied to healthier hearts and lower blood pressure.
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Pets also spark conversations and social interactions, strengthening community connections. And for people navigating grief, illness, or stressful times, a pet’s unconditional love can provide much-needed emotional support.
How to Join the Effort
Whether you’re looking for a jogging buddy, a quiet cuddle companion, or a new playmate for your kids, this October is the time to adopt. Reduced fees at Harris County Pets give families a chance to welcome a pet without financial barriers, while also helping shelters free up space for the next animal in need.
To learn more, call 281-999-3191 or visit CountyPets.com.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
