WACO, TX — The Humane Society of Central Texas is taking extra precautions to protect its staff and visitors.
The shelter buildings are not open to the public. HSCTX is doing curbside meet-and-greets by appointment only during normal business hours.
The shelter is now requiring all visitors, including children, to wear a mask while at the shelter. Those not wearing a mask will not be allowed to keep their appointment.
The shelter is maintaining 6 feet of distance between people at all ties. This means no touching, hugs, hand shakes or elbow bumps.
Those interested in adopting or sheltering a dog can check out available dogs on their website or Facebook page and make a list of animals that are of interest. People must then complete an online application and call the shelter at (254) 754-1454 to make an appointment. Renters must download the Landlord Permission Form and complete it before the appointment.
When you arrive for your appointment, do not approach the front door. Call the front desk to let staff know you've arrived so they can greet you. Then, you can let staff members know which dogs interest you, or staff members can choose dogs for you. They will then bring the dogs out to meet you.
HSCTX recommends bringing your own dogs and children to the meet-and-greet to make sure the dog you choose is a good match.
Those interested in adopting or fostering a cat should follow the same process as those interested in fostering a dog. Staff members can only show cats from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. each day. When you arrive for your appointment, call the front desk and staff members will escort you to the cat house.
If your dog was picked up by Animal Control and you would like to reclaim it, knock on the door of the Animal Services Building. Staff members will send you to the intake building where you will receive paperwork showing the reclaim fee amount. You should then bring your paperwork to the adoption building and knock on the door. Staff members will take your paperwork and payment while you wait outside.
If you cannot afford the reclaim fee, HSCTX says they may be able to help by providing a loan for up to half of the ammount.
If you would like to surrender your dog to the shelter, call (254) 754-1454 so staff can help you keep the dog in your home.
Those looking to volunteer once the shelter is back to normal operating procedures can register online.
