Harris County Pets: Kia Pet Adoption Grant Report

How did this grant help your organization and the pets in your care?

The Kia Adoption Grant had a meaningful impact on both our shelter and the pets we serve. By reducing adoption fees, we were able to place more animals into loving homes faster, especially those who typically wait longer for adopters. The increased adoption traffic helped us ease capacity, reduce stress for pets in the building, and free up resources for incoming animals and those with greater medical needs. Overall, the grant boosted community engagement and helped us give more pets a safe, happy fresh start.

How many pets did this grant help?

90+

Please provide a story of one or more specific pets this grant helped.

Chapo, a shy 2-year-old shepherd mix, arrived at Harris County Pets after being found wandering a busy intersection. He was underweight, timid, and unsure of people. Despite his sweet temperament, Chapo struggled to catch the attention of adopters — often retreating to the back of his kennel when visitors passed by.

During the Kia Adoption Grant–funded event, Chapo’s adoption fee was reduced, giving him the visibility and opportunity he had been missing. A young lady looking for her first pet noticed him during the event, and with the help of our staff, spent extra time getting to know him. The reduced adoption fee helped her feel confident she could afford his initial care, allowing her to focus on building a bond with him.

By the end of the afternoon, Chapo left the shelter with his new family — tail wagging, head held higher than we had ever seen. The young lady later shared that Chapo now spends his days cuddling on the couch, going on morning jogs, and slowly gaining confidence in his new home.

Thanks to the Kia Adoption Grant, Chapo received a true second chance — and a family that adores him.