SAN MARCOS  — The Hays County Commissioners Court has awarded a contract to Austin Pets Alive!, a leading animal welfare organization, to continue its groundbreaking work at the Hays County Pet Resource Center.

This collaboration has already made significant strides in fostering, adoptions and providing essential resources to pets and community pet owners, according to a Hays County news release.

“Austin Pets Alive! has been a Hays County partner for over 15 years, I look forward to continuing to lead the nation in support of the human-animal bond and pet retention, with unique transformative programming,” said Hays County Chief of Staff Alex Villalobos.

The Hays County Pet Resource Center, launched in April 2023, has become a first-of-its-kind model for animal welfare and protection programs across the nation. This partnership between Hays County and Austin Pets Alive! focuses on public safety, animal safety and lifesaving initiatives, while increasing public access to important resources for pet owners.

“The Hays County Pet Resource Center is a prime example of how collaboration and dedication can lead to significant advancements in animal welfare,” said Hays County Judge Ruben Becerra. “We are excited to expand our partnership with Austin Pets Alive! and look forward to the success of these innovative programs.”

The Hays County Pet Resource Center has shown success in its first year, including supporting over 500 pets and owners with Hays County PASS, the virtual resource center designed to rehome and keep pets and not surrender to a shelter. It has also collaborated with Hays County by directly engaging more than 2,500 specific Hays County citizens through community events and, in partnership with Central Texas Food Bank, has provided food to 760 pets for families in need.

The new contract awarded by the Hays County Commissioners Court ensures that Austin Pets Alive! will continue to lead the development of the Pet Resource Center, building upon the progress made thus far, the release stated. With a focus on community education and pet owner support, the collaboration aims to strengthen the human-animal bond and create a more compassionate future for Hays County pets.

For more information about the Hays County Pet Resource Center and its ongoing initiatives, visit www.hayscountytx.com/pet-resource.