The Pet Coalition of Ellis County is creating a critical and more compassionate safety net for pets and the people who care for them in a community with limited animal welfare infrastructure.

In a county spanning more than 950 square miles—with no county-run shelter and local rescues already at or beyond capacity—too many animals face uncertain outcomes. The Coalition was formed in October of 2024 to meet this gap, not by replacing existing organizations, but by connecting them, strengthening them, and supporting the community. The work we do is intentionally collaborative- supporting local shelters, rescues, animal welfare partners and community leaders rather than duplicating their role.

What makes the Pet Coalition especially impactful is that the work focuses on preventing a crisis before it begins, keeping pets out of the shelter system. By connecting families to low-cost veterinary care, microchipping, pet food support, and rehoming guidance, we are addressing root causes of abandonment and reducing owner surrender, while helping the broader community respond to a changing animal welfare landscape with kindness, coordination and action.

At the same time, we are addressing urgent, often unseen needs. For victims of domestic violence, a beloved pet can become a powerful tool of control. Abusers often threaten to harm the animal if the victim leaves, causing many survivors to delay escape from a dangerous situation. Through our partnership with The Heights of Ellis County we provide resources and shelter for their pets to help remove the barrier to safety—protecting not only animals, but the people who love them.

While we are not a shelter and do not have the capacity to take in every animal, our role is essential. We provide coordination, resources, and support in situations where no single organization can meet the need alone.

Every vaccine administered, every pet kept in a home, and every animal safely supported through our programs represents a life diverted from crisis.

Together with our volunteers, donors, and community partners, we are building a more compassionate, coordinated future—where fewer animals enter the system, and more families stay whole.

2026 Tails & Treasures Auction

------------------------------BID BIG, SAVE LIVES-------------------------