BARC Animal Shelter

BARC Animal Shelter & Adoptions is the City of Houston's official municipal animal shelter. It is the only city shelter in Houston required by law to take in every animal that comes through its doors — no matter the breed, health, or situation. BARC cares for more than 22,000 animals each year and works hard to find them new homes through adoptions, foster programs, and partnerships with local rescue groups. The shelter also offers a low-cost Wellness Center for pet owners that provides vaccines, microchipping, heartworm testing, and flea prevention. Other programs include a free spay/neuter initiative called Healthy Pets Healthy Streets, volunteer opportunities, and animal law enforcement services. BARC's mission is to promote and protect public health and animal care through sheltering, pet placement, education, and enforcement.