Fort Bend PAWS Builds ‘Furever’ Homes

More than 3,500 homeless animals are taken in by Fort Bend County Animal Services (FBCAS) each year. In the past, most of those animals would have been euthanized, but FBCAS is a no-kill shelter. Helping them stay that way is Fort Bend PAWS.

Fort Bend County Animal Services began working toward “no-kill” status in 2015. To receive that designation, at least 90 percent of the animals admitted must be saved. Under “no-kill” guidelines, euthanasia is reserved for terminally ill animals or animals that cannot be safely adopted out.

Achieving this admirable goal is not cheap. The animals must be housed, fed, medically treated and cared for. The county is not allowed to fundraise, so in 2018, Fort Bend PAWS (Pets Are Worth Saving), led by County Commissioner Vincent Morales, was established as a fundraising and awareness-building organization to assist the shelter.

The non-profit fundraises for the shelter and also recruits volunteers and foster parents. Donated funds are used for programs not currently covered by the county budget and include specialty veterinary care, spay/neuter assistance, shelter animal enrichment, emergency response and other projects as necessary.

Last February, Fort Bend PAWS was able to donate $10,000 toward shelter services. The funds were used for heartworm treatment and prevention programs at the shelter.

With the help of Fort Bend PAWS, the shelter has been able to maintain a 90 percent threshold of animals saved.

You can help Fort Bend PAWS during the Cross Creek Ranch Give Back, Build Hope campaign. This month, if you purchase a new home in our community we will make a monetary donation to Abigail’s Place, Brookwood Community and Fort Bend PAWS.

Even if you aren’t planning to purchase a new home, you can provide much-needed items to any of these charities. Simply purchase an item on the organization’s wish list and drop it off at the Cross Creek Ranch Welcome Center, 6450 Cross Creek Bend Lane, during its designated month.

As an added bonus, if you purchase your new home in November or December you will be entered into a drawing for $3,000.

This isn’t the first time we’ve raised money for Fort Bend PAWS. In 2019, our Mutt Strutt raised $6,905 for the organization. And now — with your help — Fort Bend PAWS can continue making it “paws-ible” for homeless animals to get a second chance at a “furever” home.