P.A.S.S. program helps 60 families in first month

The Hays County Pet Resource Center Positive Alternatives to Shelter Surrender program launched in January to help local families and pets by providing assistance and access to resources, helping keep pets out of the shelter system. In the first month, the program helped a total of 60 families in Hays County.

The Hays County P.A.S.S. program was a product of a countywide survey conducted by the Hays County Pet Resource Center last year. Results indicated that 70% of county residents could not access a service they needed for their pet within the last three years, and 86% would use pet resource center programs.

“There are many different reasons pet owners reach out to P.A.S.S. It could be for help with veterinary care, pet food, behavior training or a pet deposit,” said P.A.S.S. Program Manager Lucy Fernandez. “When someone contacts us, we’re able to connect them with both human and animal services. Providing a safe, judgment-free zone to help both the person and the pet.”

The P.A.S.S. program was originally created by Austin Pets Alive! as a resource for Texas residents who are experiencing challenges in keeping their pet(s) and expanded as a virtual resource to help meet Hays County community needs.

Hays County community members can access the virtual resource center at austinpetsalive. org/resources/ pass.