Kerrville Pets Alive spent $20,000 on flood response in 30 days and is now the county’s official animal disaster hub
KPA was formed seven years ago after a public outcry over high euthanasia rates at the county animal shelter, where animals were being put down twice weekly due to space constraints.
When the July 16 flood hit, Kerrville Pets Alive was already dealing with surge conditions from the 2025 disaster. The organization has spent more than $20,000 in animal-related flood expenses since July 16 alone — covering emergency veterinary care, displaced animals, and a wave of owner surrenders from renters who cannot bring pets into temporary housing.
Executive Director Karen Guerriero appeared Monday on Lead Live during Day 2 of Nonprofit Week.
KPA was formed seven years ago after a public outcry over high euthanasia rates at the county animal shelter, where animals were being put down twice weekly due to space constraints. Since formation, KPA has maintained a 90% live release rate at the county taxpayer-funded facility — a number Guerriero describes as “kind of unheard of for a county animal control facility.”
The organization recently achieved occupancy on a new campus adjacent to the animal control facility, including a newly leased 2,000-square-foot warehouse that now serves as centralized storage for all regional pet food pantries and emergency crates. On Oct. 7, KPA will partner with Texas A&M to formally integrate the campus into Kerr County’s emergency mass-casualty and disaster plans — making KPA the official animal disaster hub for the county.
Current flood pressures include a rise in tick-borne illnesses — one abandoned Center Point dog arrived with white gums from severe anemia and required hospitalization — and upper respiratory infections in the cat population.
Bark in the Park, a leash-friendly community event, is Sept. 12 at Sample Park on Loop 534. The annual Furball Gala in December carries a Palm Springs/Vintage theme, with sponsorships currently on sale. The pet food pantry is open every Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., for Kerr County residents.
“Orange is for safety,” Guerriero said. “You pretty much know you’re going to see either a Home Depot, Whataburger, or Pets Alive volunteer.”
Volunteer, foster, or donate: kerrvillepetsalive.org.
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