Finding homes for stray dogs, cats in San Antonio is struggle

In my years of writing about animals, I've come across countless stories that underscore the complexities of pet overpopulation and the struggles faced by those who try to help. Brenda's story is one such example.

This past July, while walking her dog, Brenda noticed two loose dogs following her. Initially, she kept her distance, cautious about engaging with unknown animals. However, her compassionate side soon took over. Worried about their safety, Brenda gave the dogs water and allowed them to stay in her yard.

ANIMALS MATTER: Fixing outdoor cats is easier than ever. Here's why.

After bathing the dogs and discovering they were covered in fleas, Brenda took them to a vet to check for microchips, hoping to reunite them with their owner. Unfortunately, as is often the case, neither dog was microchipped, and no one had reported them missing at local shelters. Realizing she couldn't keep both dogs, Brenda decided to adopt the older, harder-to-place dog. She then began her search for a safe home for the younger female pup, whom she affectionately named Chico. (Despite knowing Chico is traditionally a male name, she liked the name and decided to keep it.)

Over the next few weeks, Brenda reached out to more than 30 local shelters and rescue groups, hoping to find a spot for Chico. However, summer is an especially difficult time for shelters, many at full capacity due to the influx of strays and owner surrenders. Despite her diligent efforts, Brenda kept hearing the same message: There was no room available. She continued calling and visiting shelters, but months later, Chico is still with her.

Brenda's frustration is not uncommon. Many people in San Antonio who rescue animals face the same challenge: finding a shelter or rescue group with the space and resources to take them in. Had Brenda lived within the city limits, she could have taken Chico to Animal Care Services and signed up to foster her through their system until space became available. Since Brenda lives outside city limits, her best option is Bexar County Animal Control Services, but like many pet owners, she worries about Chico's fate in a county or city facility if the puppy doesn't find a home quickly.

What's Brenda's solution?

"Have a waitlist — a simple spreadsheet listing the contact's name, phone, and email," she explained. "Ask the person if they could hold onto the dog until it's their turn on the waitlist. In doing so, they've won a foster and saved valuable space in the shelter."

In the meantime, Brenda continues calling shelters, unsure if or when something will open up for Chico, who is now 10 months old. Brenda says she hopes her story will inspire shelters to improve their intake process, offering more support to people like her who are trying to the right thing, and just want assurances help is on the way.