In Houston, Texas, the Harris County Animal Shelter reopened Tuesday to find Lee trapped in an abandoned crate in the parking lot, despite being closed for Memorial Day. Lee was a 1-year-old poodle trapped in a heavy coat of dirty fur.
Kerry McKeel, the shelter’s media specialist, said Lee arrived at the shelter matted and covered in urine. There was a heartfelt note inside Lee’s crate that read: “Can you please take care of my dog?” It read: “He was very unsure and nervous.” My puppy Lee is a great puppy, but I cannot afford to keep him. Lee will listen, bark, and not bite. Please do not put him down. I love him, but cannot afford to keep him. I apologize I didn’t shave him yet, but please find him a home and care for him. Thank you.”
The Harris County Shelter had over 200 abandoned animals around Memorial Day weekend. When Lee arrived, the shelter was already overflowing — more than 375 animals needed homes, despite being designed to accommodate 150. In cages meant for just one or two animals, there was no limit to the number of animals that could be held at once. This frightened Poodle was unprepared for such a raucous atmosphere.
McCkeel believes that Hurricane Harvey may have resulted in financial hardships for pet owners, which may have led to a high number of pet owners surrendering their pets over the holiday weekend. Despite the fact that many pet owners feel forced to give up their pets due to cost or housing concerns, the shelter believes there are other options available and offers free or low-cost services like food, fencing, medical care, and more.
Harris County Animal Shelter wrote on Facebook, “We understand financial hardship, but we want to do whatever we can to keep pets with their families.” Talk to us about your circumstances before you decide to give up your pet to find out what resources we can refer you to.”
His true character emerged after he was well groomed and free of his heavy fur. Confident and always smiling, he looked completely different after he was well groomed and free of his heavy fur.
“Lee is an affectionate, very smart and spunky pup,” McKeel said. “He knows how to sit and play fetch. He certainly went from bow to bow.” In addition to McKeel, everyone at the shelter is doing their best to help Lee.
Despite his playful nature, McKeel says he is a very good dog. “I also learned that he really enjoys a puppuccino. We went to Starbucks this morning.”
