WILLIAMSON COUNTY, Texas — In a few short weeks, it will be the start of the Christmas season, in addition to Hannukah and Kwanza. Special times for shopping, wrapping packages, and gift giving. It is the time of year when some think of adding to their families with purchase of a puppy. Who doesn’t love the sight of young children smiling with glee as mom and dad gift them with a little ball of fur? And if a cat is what you seek, the children will be just as pleased. Perhaps a bunny rabbit on your child’s gift list?
An alternative to the purchase of a new pet from a pet store or a breeder is to consider adopting a dog, cat, rabbit or bird from a local animal shelter. In Williamson County, the Regional Animal Shelter (WCRAS) always has a selection of pets who are looking for their forever home. Due to COVID-19, the shelter currently requires visitors to make an appointment in advance to view the animals available for adoption. An appointment can easily be made on the shelter’s website.
Adoption fees are $75, which includes giving the dog its basic vaccines, spay/neuter surgery, heartworm screening, and placement of a microchip in the animal’s back. A person needs to be age 18 or older to adopt, show a valid ID, and a completed adoption application. The shelter has operated as a “no-kill” center for the past five years, which is a testament to the many families who have taken the WCRAS animals into their homes.
This year, the annual “Fur Ball” is being held online as a virtual event due to circumstances with COVID-19. It is the eleventh year of this fundraiser which has a goal of raising $30,000 in donations. The funds will be used for two 2020 pilot programs: a Kitten Coordinator position and the Honor Roll program.
For more information about adoption and the Fur Ball, visit the WCRAS website.