Rescue Partners

We Appreciate Our Rescue Partners!


ALL RESCUE SERVICES ARE BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. The person picking up the animal must have a scheduled appointment. Please call 281-999-3191 to make that appointment or email rescueme@countypets.com.

Animal rescue groups interested in rescuing animals must be pre-approved and agree to abide by the requirements outlined in the Harris County Pets Rescue Policy

To become a Harris County Pets approved rescue partner, please complete and sign the documents in the links below and email a PDF& version to rescueme@countypets.com along with the following:

  1. IRS form confirming 501(c)(3) status.
    1. If not yet confirmed, proof of application and payment submitted to the IRS may be considered. 
  2. Group mission statement 
  3. Adoption standards and contract 
  4. Sterilization policies 
  5. Social media handles and website URL
  6. An official letter of reference from your current treating veterinarian (With letter head or seal)


Complete and sign the Temporary Custody Agreement. Mail the original, signed form to:

Temporary Custody Agreements
HCPH Veterinary Public Health
612 Canino Rd.
Houston, TX 77076

The process for Temporary Custody Agreement (Medical Rescue) can take up to 30 days. If you have any questions about this process please call our main line, 281.999.3191 or email us at: rescueme@countypets.com.

Harris County Pets updated our operating procedures for euthanasia and our policy regarding partner notification, effective November 1, 2024. We are making changes in response to the persistent overcrowding at the shelter and intake constraints, with a goal of promoting public safety, human health, and animal health. These changes have been informed by feedback VPH received from partners via a recent survey about improving shelter operations. To view the updated policy, please click the button below:

Euthanasia Notification Procedure