Featured Adoptions

Location

Address: 17555 Katy Freeway, Houston, Texas 77094
Phone: (281) 497-0591

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CAP Shelter Adoption Hours

Adoptions

Adoption Lobby Hours: Monday and Tuesday 1pm - 5pm, Wednesday - Sunday 11am - 5pm

CAP is closed to the public on the following holidays: Easter, 4th of July, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years Day

Receiving Animals

Intake is open 7 days a week from 10am to 2pm. 

Cornelius Clinic

The CAP Cornelius Wellness Clinic is operating based on Appointments Only, no walk-in visits at this time.

Call (281-600-8500) or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to Reserve your Appointment for Wellness Services!

Please schedule in advance of your upcoming due vaccines. Curbside pickup of Heartworm & Flea meds is available. 

Before deciding to declaw your cat, please read the information below and speak with your veterinarian about the effects that declawing can have on your cat.

Scratching is a natural innate behavior of cats. It serves to condition the claws and to mark territory with scent from the paws. Cats need their claws to climb, chase, hunt, and defend themselves. Providing scratching posts and keeping a cat's claws trimmed can help prevent damage to furniture.

Declawing is a painful operation, not a simple manicure and provides no medical benefit to the cat. It involves the surgical removal or amputation of the entire last digit of each toe. It is comparable to the removal of human fingertips to the first knuckle. Sensory and motor nerves are cut, damaged, and destroyed even without surgical complications. Although the paws appear to heal well, recovery is a slow and painful process with a wooden lack of feeling, then a tingling sensation. Cats often avoid using the litter box after surgery due to the pain.  

Cats are digitigrade (they walk on their toes) and declawing can hamper the sensations and enjoyment that a cat experiences when walking, running, sprinting, climbing, and stretching. Numerous studies have confirmed that cats can suffer physiological damage when their natural defense system is removed. Stress in cats can cause health and behavioral problems and many declawed cats are surrendered to animal protection agencies due to these problems.

Declawed cats often exhibit one or more of the following problems:

• Avoidance of the litterbox
• Unprovoked biting
• Impaired balance and agility
• Extreme timidity, especially when strangers or other animals are present
• Lack of playful activity which can lead to obesity in later life.

Once cats have been declawed, they must be kept indoors for the rest of their lives. A declawed cat that is let outside is a target for any dog, cat, or other creature. They cannot defend themselves or even climb a tree to escape danger. If you are adamant in your preference to have a cat declawed, consider adopting a shelter cat already declawed that needs a good home. 

Cats are wonderful creatures and are a great pleasure to have around the house. They provide hours of entertainment and are a source of relaxation when you need some quiet time to unwind. Cats can easily be trained not to scratch the furniture and other items in your home. Provide at least one, or better yet, several scratching posts for your kitten as soon as possible. Try to get the posts covered with a material of a different texture than your upholstery, so the kitten doesn’t get confused about which object is OK to scratch and which isn’t. (A wooden post wound tightly with heavy sisal rope [they do not like nylon or plastic] makes a good scratching post.) Encourage and praise the kitten when it uses the post; squirt your kittens with a spray bottle of water when they uses something you do not want scratched as a deterrent; begin clipping your kitten’s nails each month as needed (your veterinarian can show you how). They will get used to having this done and it will be an easy task even when your kitten has grown into an adult.

For more information on declawing, see these sites:

• The State of Declawing Today
• A Veterinarian's View
• The Tragedy of  Post-Declaw Pain Syndrome
• The Paw Project

“With the qualities of cleanliness, affection, patience, dignity and courage that cats have, how many of us, I ask you, would be capable of becoming cats?”      

--Fernand Mery

Your contribution, large or small, will allow Citizens for Animal Protection to save helpless animals from needless suffering. We invite you to visit CAP’s shelter and see for yourself how people like you have made a difference for animals. CAP receives no government funding and relies solely on private donations and fundraising efforts. You can help us help animals through a donation today! Or consider attending one of our fundraising events, such as the annual Celebrity Paws Gala - have fun, meet fellow animal-lovers and help homeless pets - all with one special ticket!

Your tax-deductible contribution to Citizens for Animal Protection is one of the most satisfying investments you could ever make. Your dollars can mean the difference between life and death for an animal in need. Please help us save just one pet...more, if you can. In return, you receive no gifts or prizes. Instead, you get a really good feeling inside. And that, we believe, is the greatest dividend of all! Donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowable by law. Gifts of securities are also welcome. 

Legacy and Corporate Giving 

CAP Codicil Club

Leave a lasting legacy for homeless animals in need! Helping defenseless animals beyond your lifetime is easier than you think. By making a bequest to CAP in your will, you can ensure lasting support for our furry friends. Simply inform CAP of your commitment in writing, and you'll become a valued member of our legacy giving program, CAP Codicil Club. Members help ensure that the incredible work we do at CAP continues to thrive, providing shelter, care, and hope to thousands of animals each year. Your support enables us to sustain and expand our efforts, ensuring that homeless animals receive the love and care they deserve for years to come. As a member of the CAP Codicil Club, you'll be invited to gather twice a year at exclusive luncheons to bond over our shared concern for animals. And as a token of our appreciation, each member receives a beautiful Codicil Club pin, symbolizing their dedication. Join us in making a difference and securing a brighter future for animals in need by considering CAP in your estate plans today. Together, we can continue to make a positive impact on the lives of countless animals in our community. Interested in learning more? Download the CAP Codicil Club brochure (PDF).

Matching Gift Programs

Your company may match your gift to CAP. Contact your human resources department to determine if your employer will match your gift and what steps you need to take to complete the match. Corporate matching is a great way to double and sometimes triple your gift to CAP!

IRA Distributions

Congress has extended a law that allows individuals 70.5 or older to make tax-free gifts now to qualified charitable organizations like CAP using funds transferred directly from their IRA's. You can transfer any amount up to $100,000. There is no income tax deduction for the distribution to CAP because the gift comes from IRA funds that have never been taxed.

Also, the distribution counts towards fulfilling your required minimum distribution known as RMD from your IRA in the current tax year. The distribution is excluded from your gross income for federal tax purposes which is a real advantage at tax time. You benefit regardless of whether you itemize your tax deductions or not.

Government Employee Giving

CAP is a participating charity for the employees of the City of Houston, the State of Texas and the U.S. Federal Government. If you so choose, you can designate all or part of your gift to Citizens for Animal Protection. Below is a listing of the codes that you should use when designating your gift to CAP:

• City of Houston is the CMC - Combined Municipal Campaign - code no. 2216
• State of Texas is the SECC - State Employee Charitable Campaign - code no. 33-4141
• U.S. Federal Government is the CFC - Combined Federal Campaign - code no. 51951.

These campaigns all run from September to December each year.

Gifts of Stock

CAP accepts gifts of stock. Donating a highly appreciated asset to CAP may allow you to avoid a significant portion of your tax liability while receiving a charitable contribution deduction. Consult your financial advisor to determine the requirements for this deduction. Contact us for more information on stock transfers.

Legal Name: Citizens for Animal Protection, Inc.

Address: 17555 Katy Freeway, Houston, TX 77094

Federal Tax ID Number: 23-7296260

 Monetary Donations

Online Donations and Honor/Memorial Gifts

You can make an immediate difference in a sheltered animal's life through a contribution today - we use a secure online donation processing service that accepts Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. You can make a one-time gift or set up recurring donation and also make memorial or honor gifts. You will receive an acknowledgment for your donation via email.  Donate Today!

Giving by Mail

If you prefer to mail in your gift to CAP, please make a check out to "Citizens for Animal Protection" and mail to:
Citizens for Animal Protection
17555 Katy Freeway
Houston, Texas 77094

Giving by Phone

We can take your donation by any major credit card, over the phone. Please call (281) 497-0591 to make a donation by phone.

Wish List & In-Kind Gifts

Donate everyday shelter items such as dog and cat food, newspapers, and paper towels, as well as office supplies and equipment.  Check out our "Wags to Wishes" Wishlist for a detailed list of needs.  You can also purchase items at our pet supply shop and donate them back to the shelter or buy from Amazon and Chewy and ship directly to CAP! Designate CAP as your AmazonSmile favorite charity, and every time you shop, Amazon will donate a portion of your purchases to help Houston's homeless pets.  

• Amazon Wish List
• Chewy Wish List

Affiliate Programs

Grocery Share Cards

Give every time you shop for groceries! CAP participates in the Kroger share card program. 

CAP is always looking for dedicated individuals who are interested in making a difference in the lives of homeless animals. All applicants must be highly motivated toward the welfare and humane treatment of animals, enjoy working in a fast-paced environment, and know how to be part of a team. CAP is an equal-opportunity employer.

Animal Caretaker/Adoption Counselor (full & part-time positions available)

Summary:

At CAP full-time shelter employees work a variable schedule with at least one weekend day, from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm (possibly later), attending to the care of the animals in the shelter. Animal Caretakers are responsible for cleaning the cages and kennels, walking dogs, preparing food, cleaning dishes and litter boxes, doing laundry, sweeping, mopping, and other janitorial duties.

We need hard-working individuals who are not afraid of handling a variety of animals - cats and dogs, rabbits, hamsters, and other small mammals. Individuals must be compassionate toward animals and a good team player. This position provides an opportunity to move into our Adoption, Intake, and Work Up areas. Salary includes health, vacation, and sick leave benefits.

Required Education and Experience:

• Must be at least 18 years of age with a high school diploma or GED.

To view the full job listing, visit CAP's Indeed page. Interested applicants will need to submit a resume and completed Shelter & Clinic application by emailing employment@cap4pets.org to be considered.

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Preventing the birth of unwanted animals is a major goal of Citizens for Animal Protection. Since every birth eventually has the possibility of leading to thousands of unwanted offspring, CAP actively promotes public awareness of the necessity for spaying and neutering pets.  To this end, CAP has opened our very own low-cost pet clinic, The Cornelius Clinic, and works with a variety of spay/neuter and wellness clinics, and area veterinarians, to promote the importance of vaccinations, heartworm preventative care, and spay/neuter. These practices will ensure that our companion animals enjoy a long and healthy life.

Get the facts and get your pets spayed or neutered! You and your pet will be happier for it and you can take pride in knowing that you are playing a role in solving the pet overpopulation crisis.

EXCUSE #1          “I don’t need to spay my pet because she doesn’t live outside.”

Most of us take our dogs outdoors several times a day whether it’s to “potty”, walk the neighborhood, visit friends and family, or get a little exercise at the local dog park.  If your dog is always indoors, she might not be getting enough exercise or mental stimulation. Dogs are very social. And it only takes a moment for a playful dog at the dog park to find herself involved in a casual fling. But having your pet spayed/neutered doesn’t just prevent unwanted litters.  It can also prevent cancers in female pets that are allowed to have multiple heat cycles. 

It’s also true that indoor pets that are spayed/neutered won’t find themselves driven by hormonal urges to mark your home with strongly scented urine and bloody discharge, escape the house whenever a door is opened, or subject you to the horrors of their musically challenged mating calls when you’re in desperate need for some shut-eye. 

EXCUSE #2          “Spaying/Neutering will change my pet’s playful personality.”

Yes and No.  You will see less domineering behavior. Your pet’s quirky need to hump your children should cease. And your pet will also be less inclined to dart for the door or frantically pace the house when in heat, driven to roam the streets to mate. But essentially your pet’s personality will remain unchanged.  

EXCUSE #3          “It’s wrong to emasculate a male cat or dog.”

Your pets want to be healthy and happy. They want to have a full belly and lots of toys. They have no concept of “manliness” and are unconcerned with the existence of their sexual organs. Your dog or cat will be just as protective and loyal as any pet secure in their knowledge that he has finally found his forever family. Neutering male pets also prevents inflammation of the prostate and testicular cancer.   

EXCUSE #4          “I don’t want to hurt my pet.”

Veterinarians don’t want to cause your pet any pain either!  Every pet is given pain medications to prevent any discomfort.  Veterinarians are very experienced, having performed this surgery many, many, many times.  They use the most proven procedures to minimize stress and help your pet remain comfortable while in their care.  Veterinary staff can also offer guidance on the best tips and tricks to help you keep your pet calm and heal without complications post-surgery.  

EXCUSE #5          “My pet will get fat.”

There are studies linking spay/neuter surgeries in pets to weight gain. Caregivers worried about their pet’s weight should invest in quality pet foods suited for their specific species of pets. When choosing food and treats, avoid fillers, such as corn, and focus on nutritional value. You will also want to be sure your pet is active, getting lots of daily playtime with the family. We’ve all heard it before. Just like us, diet and exercise are what truly matters when it comes to maintaining your pet’s overall health and weight. Your veterinarian is the best source of information regarding your pet’s specific dietary needs.  

EXCUSE #6          “I can’t afford to spay or neuter my pets.”

How will you afford the cost of caring for an unplanned litter?  Caring for a pet can be pricey, especially when they make a meal out of your new leather shoes.  But the cost of a spay/neuter surgery doesn’t have to be a major expense. In fact, many animal organizations and clinics have programs that have fundraised just to help you. The Cornelius Clinic at CAP offers low cost spay/neuter surgeries as part of our mission to protect companion animals.  We even host FREE spay/neuter events where generous sponsors cover the cost of the surgery 100%. Find low- cost spay/neuter clinics in the Houston area. 

EXCUSE #7          “But I want my pet to have babies just like her.”

We totally get it. Puppies and kittens are freakin’ cute. But every day, in every state and every city a local animal shelter will have hundreds of unwanted pets waiting for a family to claim them and take them home. There are 5 major shelters and tons of local rescue groups operating in the Houston area alone. And as much as we wished it wasn’t true, most of the companion animals available in these facilities won’t get picked to go home tonight.

Perhaps you are committed to finding every one of your pet's puppies or kittens a family of their own. But this also means that these families won’t feel the need to visit the local shelter to adopt and save the life of a homeless animal that is still waiting to be claimed by its very own human.  

If you’re in need a cute, cuddly, furry fix, become a volunteer. Seriously! CAP shelter volunteers can walk howling hounds and care for fickle felines. You could also choose to become a foster family for puppies and kittens too young to be listed for adoption or pets in need of a bit of time to recover from a cold or various medical treatments. It can be challenging, but the rewards are limitless.  And your social media accounts will never look better.  Just sayin’!

You Can Save Hundreds of Animals by Spaying or Neutering Just One. Please, Spay or Neuter Your Pet!

Support Low Cost Spay / Neuter Clinics

Support low cost spay and neuter with an animal friendly license plate available from the Texas DOT. From the $30 specialty plate fee, $22 goes to the Texas Department of Health to make grants to eligible organizations that sterilize animals owned by the general public at minimal or no cost.

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Man’s best friend can be frustrating at times! Families can get help with their pet’s problem behavior through CAP’s helpful phone counseling service. Many hundreds of animals that might otherwise have been dropped off at a shelter, abandoned, or put to death have been saved through our sharing of referral services and valuable tips on pet training and behavior modification. Call CAP today at (281) 497-0591 for assistance.

In our resources section, we have articles on housebreaking your puppy, training your kitten (yes it can be done!), spay/neuter benefits, facts to consider before declawing, crating, and keeping your dog outdoors.

There are many reputable training facilities in Houston and the surrounding areas. Your veterinarian is always a good source of information and can provide you with resources to address any problems you may be having with your pet.