PetCare Connect program expands in District 4 to provide pet resources and services

The San Antonio City Council held a special session on August 20, 2025, focusing on the PetCare Connect program and its impact on local neighborhoods. The meeting began with a presentation detailing the pilot program's progress, which has been active in Districts 1, 2, 3, and 5, with plans to expand into District 4 in September. The initiative aims to identify neighborhoods with significant needs and provide resources such as pet food and vaccinations.

The program has successfully reached over 4,000 households, resulting in 600 direct interactions and distributing 1,400 pet care resources. The staff expressed enthusiasm about the program's success, particularly in freeing pets that had been chained. The presentation highlighted the importance of proactive measures in addressing non-critical calls related to pet care.

Additionally, the council discussed recent advancements in spaying and neutering services, noting the opening of two new clinics this summer. There has been a 15.7% increase in surgeries, with a goal of reaching 41,000 procedures by the end of 2025. The council reported a 19% increase in pet returns to their homes and a significant number of pets transferred to rescue partners.

The meeting also covered adoption events, with a notable turnout of 3,000 attendees at a recent event. The South Candle Building has expanded to accommodate more pets, and the council aims to continue improving adoption rates and providing care for pets in need.

Financial discussions included a proposed budget reduction for the upcoming year, which the council assured would not impact community services. The council emphasized the importance of data collection and analysis to better understand community needs and improve service delivery.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to enhancing pet care services and addressing the needs of vulnerable populations. The council plans to continue monitoring the effectiveness of the PetCare Connect program and explore additional resources to support its initiatives.