Harris County Pets Joins Nationwide 'Empty the Shelters' Event with Reduced Adoption Fees July 5–19
Animal lovers across Harris County have another opportunity to make a life-changing difference, as Harris County Pets once again joins the BISSELL Pet Foundation’s beloved “Empty the Shelters” adoption event. From July 5 through July 19, 2025, adoption fees will be significantly reduced, making it more affordable than ever to adopt a furry companion.
The event is part of a nationwide campaign spanning more than 300 shelters across 40 states, all working toward one heartfelt goal: helping homeless pets find loving forever homes. Thanks to the dedication of Cathy Bissell, who founded the BISSELL Pet Foundation in 2011 after adopting her first rescue dog, Bear, the foundation has become a national force in reducing shelter overcrowding and ending pet homelessness.
“Let’s do it again, Harris County—let’s empty the shelter!” the team at Harris County Pets shared in their announcement.
A Local Partner in a National Lifesaving Mission
Locally, Harris County Public Health’s Veterinary Public Health (VPH) Division operates the Harris County Pets Resource Center, offering adoption and foster programs, animal control services, and low-cost veterinary care to residents in unincorporated Harris County. In 2024 alone, VPH spayed or neutered over 5,680 animals, responded to nearly 30,000 animal control service requests, and successfully adopted out 4,044 animals, while maintaining an impressive 91.6% live release rate.
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"Empty the Shelters" isn’t just a promotion—it’s a testament to community compassion. During the May 2025 event, Harris County Pets found loving homes for 154 animals, including 112 dogs and puppies and 42 cats and kittens. The outpouring of support was felt across the county.
“Thanks to Bissell, Cathy Bissell—and the love from our community—we helped 154 pets find their forever homes from May 1–15,” the organization shared in a May 19 post. “There are still many pets waiting for a second chance. Come adopt, foster, or volunteer—you can be the reason their tails wag again!”
Why Now Is the “Purr-fect” Time to Adopt
Summer months often see an increase in shelter intakes, which makes community participation even more critical. The July 5–19 Empty the Shelters event provides an ideal moment to act—whether by adopting, fostering, or spreading the word. Reduced adoption fees remove financial barriers, ensuring more pets can be placed in loving homes faster.
Pet lovers searching online for low-cost pet adoption events in Houston, summer dog and cat adoption specials, or ways to help shelter animals near me will find that this event checks every box—while offering the immeasurable reward of companionship.
Whether you're ready to bring home a four-legged friend or simply want to help the cause, Harris County Pets welcomes all forms of support. Together, we can keep tails wagging and kennels empty.
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The Harris County Pets Resource Center is located at 612 Canino Rd., Houston, TX 77076, between I-45 and the Hardy Toll Road. It’s easy to get to—and no appointment is needed to adopt!
Adoption Hours
- Mon – Fri: 1 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Sat – Sun: 11 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Pet surrenders are by appointment only. Call 281-999-3191 for help. The low-cost pet clinic is open Mon – Fri, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. (closed 12 – 1 p.m. for lunch).
For more information, including profiles of adoptable pets ready for their forever family, visit CountyPets.com.
Stay tuned with My Neighborhood News for updates on local pet adoption events, animal welfare initiatives, and more heartwarming stories from across Harris County.
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.
