BARC Animal Shelter and Adoptions

Frequently Asked Questions - Healthy Pets Healthy Streets

What do I need to qualify?
You must live within the City of Houston limits. Please view THIS LINK to verify whether or not you live within the city limits.

What if I don’t qualify for the service?
If you do not live within the city limits please feel free to contact your county shelter or visit our low cost spay neuter clinic.

Should I make an appointment for this event?
We do not make appointments for our Healthy Pets Healthy Streets events. The service is provided on a first come first serve basis only. Please see our latest flyer on the previous web page for details about locations.

What do I need to bring to the event?
Please bring a current ID and current utility bill. Also make sure to bring a copy of any vaccines your pet has recently received.

What if my pet has no vaccines?
We recommend your pet receives basic vaccines before the event but it is not absolutely necessary. We will provide a free rabies vaccine as well as a microchip, a city license and the spay/neuter surgery at no cost.

Do I have to get my dog or cat spayed/neutered to receive the services?
Yes

What if my dog is already spayed or neutered, can they receive the other services?
No, pets must get spayed or neutered during our events to receive any additional services. You can visit our low- cost wellness clinic for affordable wellness services.

Can I get vaccines only?
No, the services are provided as a full package. All dogs and cats must be spayed or neutered in order to receive the additional services. If you would like low-cost vaccines, please visit our wellness clinic during our regular business hours.

What do I need to do before surgery?
Please do not give your pet any food after 10 p.m. the night before surgery.

How many pets can I bring?
Pet owners who qualify for the service are able to bring 3 cats and 3 dogs per household.

I am part of a rescue group. Can I bring my foster pets for the service?
No, the event is specifically for owned pets only. Fosters are welcome to use our low cost spay/neuter clinic.

Can I bring my neighbors pet?
No, pets must be brought to the event by the owner in order to sign the appropriate paperwork.

Can I bring community cats or stray cats to these events?
Yes, but please note that we cannot assure you that you will get a spot. Please visit our TNR page and contact barctnr@houstontx.gov to schedule an appointment with our TNR program at no cost.

What are some of the aftercare instructions?
You will be provided with instructions after you pick up your pet.

How old does my pet have to be?
Pets must be 4 months and older.