County’s animal shelters, rescues at capacity

Across Cherokee County and all of East Texas, animal shelters are reaching maximum capacity or are already full. In Jacksonville and Rusk, organizations are under pressure from high intake, low adoptions, and limited resources. 

The biggest day-to-day challenge for County Roads Rescue, a Jacksonville-based organization that with the largest number of local rescues, is a lack of help, said director Dava Cooley Cook.

“We have a small team trying to accomplish a lot each day,” she said. “We haven’t been able to secure enough consistent volunteer support, and we don’t have the funding for a fully staffed operation. We want to help every animal we receive calls for, but we’re limited by time, energy, and resources.”

As of late June, CRR housed more than 100 cats and dogs between its two facilities.

“Our maximum capacity depends on the size and age of the animals. In the past, we’ve housed up to 130 animals, but with the current sizes, we are already over capacity,” she said. “We’re making it work, but it’s a strain and we would like to return to a more manageable level. When we are at capacity, we only have two options: Post and ask for fosters or turn the animals away. At the moment, only two people including myself are fostering animals without the intent to adopt.”

CRR operates two facilities “because one just wasn’t enough” to handle the growing numbers of stray and/or dumped animals in the county, Cook said. 

“Volunteering and fostering are our biggest needs. We invite people to get involved – come see what we do, meet the animals, and connect with our mission. This isn’t just our problem to solve,” she said. “It’s a community issue, and we’d love to see more people participate.”

Dogs and cats eligible for adoption are matched with the best home suited for the animal’s individual needs and personalities.

“Every adopter must submit an application, complete a meet-and-greet, and participate in either an in-person or virtual home visit,” Cook said. “We do not offer free or same-day adoptions because we want to ensure successful, lifelong placements. Our process helps reduce the likelihood of animals being returned, which can be traumatic for them. While it may seem strict, it’s based on experience and a deep concern for the well-being of the animals.

To help spread awareness – and hopefully alleviate the over-capacity situation at their sites – the rescue is planning a carnival-style event in October, along with a few smaller events throughout the year. 

“Once the weather cools off, we plan to restart our microchip events as well,” she said.

While folks may not initially consider bringing a rescue animal into their homes, Cook described the rewards as immeasurable.

“Rescue animals are some of the most grateful souls you’ll ever meet. They bring so much joy and personality – they keep us laughing every day,” she said. “They’re a constant reminder to be thankful for the little things and to always keep things in perspective.”

Here’s a look at where things stand with area shelters and rescues – and how residents can help.

- Currently housing 115

- Not accepting any intakes for the time being

- Animals – cats and dogs – are from throughout Cherokee County

- Contact: 903-284-5321 or visit the Facebook page, “County Roads Rescue”

- How to help: Become a foster; adopt an animal; volunteer; donate supplies

 

- Currently housing more than 25 animals

- Not taking any more surrenders

- Houses cats and dogs from within city limits

- To adopt, visit and fill out applications at the city website, www.jacksonvilletx.org

- Contact: 903-339-3291, or visit Facebook page, “Jacksonville, Texas Animal Shelter”

- How to help: Donate supplies or volunteer time

 

- Capacity for 9 dogs, currently have 10

- No adoption fee

- Will potentially pay for spay and neuter for adopted dogs

- To adopt, contact or visit city hall at 108 E. 5th St. in Rusk. For an application, contact 903-683-2213

- Visit the Facebook page to learn more “City of Rusk Animal Control”

 

- Not accepting anymore animals, operating at capacity

- Takes in dogs with heartworms

- Receives multiple calls a day from all over East Texas

- Struggle with vet bills and enrichment

- How to help: Can donate or adopt through bellashearttexas.com or contact 903-721-4818

- To learn more, visit the Facebook page, “Bella’s Heart”