Houston Humane Society raises money to repair damage caused by Beryl

HOUSTON — It’s been three weeks since Beryl hit the Houston area as a Category 1 hurricane and caused widespread damage.

The Houston Humane Society is still trying to recover from the natural disaster while caring for hundreds of homeless animals.

“Even before the storm, we were operating at full capacity,” said shelter director Aaron Grady. “So now we have to sort through the animals that are coming in and try to find more creative ways to get them out.”

Beryl left behind a lot of damage on the Humane Society property in southwest Houston, including uprooted trees, downed fences and broken glass. They also suffered water damage at the adoption center.

“There was a lot of significant damage throughout the property, mainly in our dog play area,” Grady told us.

Part of the playground fence was damaged and renovations started before the storm are now on hold.

“We installed artificial turf in the area and also tried to improve the shade structure,” Grady said.

He said the play area is especially important for animals that have been abused or neglected.

“For pets that come in as a result of animal cruelty, this can provide them with the mental and physical enrichment that they didn’t see before they came in, to make sure they have the best chance of being adoptable,” Grady explained.

It’s not just animals that feel the effects of Beryl.

A portable building was installed a few months ago to add more space for employees, but after Beryl hit, the air conditioning units failed.

“The temperatures were rising, the humidity was rising, and we were just trying to do whatever we could to make the space more comfortable,” Grady said.

Now, employees are sharing spaces while the shelter tries to raise enough money to make repairs.

“When you put obstacles in your way, you find a solution,” Grady said.

The Humane Society hopes to raise at least $30,000 for the repairs. If you would like to help, you can donate online.

Despite the challenges, more than 300 animals at the shelter were kept safe during and after the storm thanks to dedicated staff and a backup generator.

To learn more about becoming a foster parent or volunteering with the Houston Humane Society, visit www.houstonhumaneorg.

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