Weslaco's new Animal Care Service expands care, outreach

WESLACO, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The City of Weslaco officially opened its new Animal Care Services building Thursday morning.

The new space, which is being leased, is located at 1912 Joe Stephens Ave. It is a major step forward in creating a more welcoming environment for both the public and the animals in its care, according to the city.

"On average, we receive 5,000 to 6,000 animals annually," said Krista Cheramie, City of Weslaco Animal Care Services Director. "Reason being, we receive animals from nine other entities, including Weslaco. Our live release rate, the way that we have our numbers where they're at is by transporting. We transfer animals to Corpus Christi, and they get transferred out elsewhere. Our adoption rate is not that high, but that is something that we're looking to increase through this PETCO Initiative."

This upgrade will help to increase community engagement, strengthen foster and volunteer programs, and boost adoption rates to save even more lives, according to animal care services.