“They’re man’s best friend, an animal can bring a lot of joy to a family, ” says Kingsville City-County health director Emilio H. Garcia.
But the inside of Kingsville Animal Shelter, tells a different story.
The shelter is at capacity with 40 dogs and seven cats waiting for a second chance.
Most are strays, but some have been abandoned.
City-County health director Emilio H. Garcia says it’s a never-ending cycle.
“Dogs could get rescued, you know 5,6 dogs in a day, but we could turn on the next hour and we’ve picked up six, seven dogs again,” says Garcia.
Garcia says the problem is preventable if owners would spay or neuter their pets.
In addition to overcrowded kennels, the shelter recently acquired two horses.
“They’re malnourished and also the fact that she’s missing the bottom lip,” says health inspector Jason Torres.
One is 16-years-old, while the other is 12.
The horses have seen a vet and are being fed properly while waiting for a permanent home.
Health inspector Jason Torres says horse ownership is expensive, and many people overlook the costs.
“It’s new and it’s nice, and the newness wears off unfortunately and they end up here,” says Torres. “We’ve gotten three here in the past two weeks.”
Which is why they are searching for a horse rescue to pick up the horses.
“We want them to be able to live out the rest of their lives with a good quality of life,” says Torres.
Meanwhile, reminding people the clock is ticking for some dogs and cats.
“We’re limited with space and unfortunately we have too,” says Garcia.
For more information on adoptions call (361) 592-3324. You can also visit their facebook page for details.
