Helotes Humane Society Has Expansion Plans
As reported by Zeke MacCormack in the San Antonio Express-News, the Helotes Humane Society (HHS) wants to open a shelter capable of holding at least 25 dogs and 25 cats and would also house its pet food pantry and offices.
The non-profit organization, led by Janice MacRossin, was formed in early 2008. Since that time they have found homes for more than 400 rescued animals, handed out 40,000 pounds of animal food, and promoted spay/neuter programs.
Ryan Garza, Helotes’ Animal Control Officer, looks to the volunteer group to care for and shelter ownerless pets he collects along local roads. Garza stated, “They’re real helpful and a really good organization.”
Veterinary bills make up the biggest single expense for the organization, which has about 100 volunteers and operates on an annual budget of about $50,000, generated through grants, fundraisers, and donations.
“They’ve done a fantastic job, but they could use a whole lot more people who want to be foster parents,” Kim Klein said. She helped form the fledgling group, provides medical care to its wards at her clinic, Hooves and Paws, and also rents a small house to them for a nominal amount, that is used as their pantry.
Thousands of pounds of donated pet food and supplies are collected, sorted, and distributed monthly at the little house behind Klein’s office at 16060 Bandera Road, about 3 miles north of Helotes.
Stephanie Dunlea, the group’s Pet Food Director, said, “We give food to anyone who needs it.” Regular patrons who pick up food for pets include residents of a local senior center, retired and unemployed pet owners, other animal care groups, and organizations that support the homeless.
Despite an increasing demand for its services and uncertainty about future funding, HHS Treasurer, Barbara Martino, said she’s managed to sock away about $50,000 in their bank account, including $20,000 that’s earmarked for a shelter. “To be honest with you,” she said, “When we get to the worst point, and the shelves are empty, then food or money miraculously shows up.”
They would love to have a donation of some land in the Helotes area for their shelter.
The Helotes Humane Society can be reached by mail at P.O. Box 908, Helotes, Texas 78023, by phone at 210-422-6242, by email at hhsanimals@yahoo.com, and on the internet at www.hhsanimals.org.
Some of their needs are:
- Donations
- Volunteers
- Pet Food
- Vehicle to transport animals to spay/neuter programs
- Office Equipment
- Canopies
- Medical care for animals needing extensive treatment