The Elgin Humane Society Has Closed

This was the main website for the Elgin Humane Society.
Content is from the site's 2004 - 2011 archived pages.

Yelpers have reported that the Elgin Humane Society has closed, but there are alternatives.
We suggest checking out Pet Net ID and their page listing animal shelters in the Elgin TX area.
Go to: petnetid.com/animal-shelter/usa/tx/animal-shelter-elgin-tx/

7/5/2015 Yelp Post
The Elgin Humane Society closed several years ago.
All strays in Elgin are picked up by the Elgin Police Dept Animal Control Officer and taken to the Bastrop County Animal Shelter on Cool River Drive

725 West Cleveland St.
Elgin, Texas
512-285-9636

The Elgin Humane Society is a non-profit group dedicated to the prevention of cruelty to animals, the relief of suffering among animals, and the extension of humane education.  It is the policy of the Society to promote humane care and treatment for all animals in Elgin and in the Elgin area; to seek to assist the return of lost animals to their owners; and to seek suitable homes for animals without owners. 



The Society assists the Elgin Animal Control Officer and the Elgin Animal Shelter related to the mission statement above.  We provide monetary and non-monetary donations to the shelter to benefit the animals.  We also provide volunteers to assist in caring for the animals in the shelter.  We are working hard to make the Elgin Shelter a better environment for the animals, to increase spay/neuters and vaccinations, to end chaining of animals, and to decrease the number of animals euthanized.

It breaks my heart to see that the Elgin Humane Society has closed. When my family was at a difficult point a few years ago, this shelter was a lifeline for us. After my teenage daughter, Sarah, completed her residential treatment at ViaMar for her eating disorder, she was so fragile and withdrawn. It was a long road to recovery, and we were looking for something to help her reconnect with the world. We came here and found Buster, a scruffy little terrier mix who was so full of life and unconditional love. Watching him bring Sarah out of her shell, getting her to go on walks with him and laugh again, was one of the most powerful things I've ever witnessed. He was the perfect companion for her, and she learned so much about nurturing and care by taking responsibility for him. I'm so grateful to the Elgin Humane Society for bringing Buster into our lives and helping our family heal. The love and dedication shown by the staff and volunteers here was truly special. While it's sad to see this chapter close, I know the spirit of this place lives on in every animal it saved. Thank you for everything. Doreen Johnson

Introduction – The following is a true reflection of the heart, soul, and very nature of this shelter.

The Elgin Humane Society Adoption Center is and shall be governed by the common goal of saving the lives of, and improving the existence of, all animals that come its way.  Read the following tale – the very same story of so many of the animals we encounter daily... the reason we exist.

“How could you?”

When I was a puppy, I entertained you with my antics and made you laugh. You called me your child, and despite a number of chewed shoes and a couple of murdered throw pillows, I became your best friend. Whenever I was "bad," you'd shake your finger at me and ask "How could you?"-but then you'd relent and roll me over for a belly rub. 

My housebreaking took a little longer than expected, because you were terribly busy, but we worked on that together. I remember those nights of nuzzling you in bed and listening to your confidences and secret dreams, and I believed that life could not be any more perfect. 

We went for long walks and runs in the park, car rides, stops for ice cream (I only got the cone because "ice cream is bad for dogs" you said), and I took long naps in the sun waiting for you to come home at the end of the day. 

Gradually, you began spending more time at work and on your career, and more time searching for a human mate. I waited for you patiently, comforted you through heartbreaks and disappointments, never chided you about bad decisions, and romped with glee at your homecomings, and when you fell in love. She, now your wife, is not a "dog person"; still I welcomed her into our home, tried to show her affection, and obeyed her. I was happy because you were happy. 

Then the human babies came along and I shared your excitement. I was fascinated by their pinkness, how they smelled, and I wanted to mother them, too. Only she and you worried that I might hurt them, and I spent most of my time banished to another room, or to a dog crate. Oh, how I wanted to love them, but I became a "prisoner of love." As they began to grow, I became their friend. They clung to my fur and pulled themselves up on wobbly legs, poked fingers in my eyes, investigated my ears, and gave me kisses on my nose. I loved everything about them and their touch-because your touch was now so infrequent-and I would've defended them with my life if need be. I would sneak into their beds and listen to their worries and secret dreams, and together we waited for the sound of your car in the driveway.

There had been a time when others asked you if you had a dog, that you produced a photo of me from your wallet, and told them stories about me. These past few years, you just answered "yes" and changed the subject. I had gone from being "your dog" to "just a dog," and you resented every expenditure on my behalf.  Now, you have a new career opportunity in another city, and you and they will be moving to an apartment that does not allow pets. You've made the right decision for your "family," but there was a time when I was your only family. I was excited about the car ride until we arrived at the animal shelter. It smelled of dogs and cats, of fear, of hopelessness. You filled out the paperwork and said "I know you will find a good home for her." They shrugged and gave you a pained look. They understand the realities facing a middle-aged dog, even one with "papers." You had to pry your son's fingers loose from my collar as he screamed "No, Daddy! Please don’t let them take my dog!" And I worried for him, and what lessons you had just taught him about friendship and loyalty, about love and responsibility, and about respect for all life. 

You gave me a good-bye pat on the head, avoided my eyes, and politely refused to take my collar and leash with you. You had a deadline to meet and now I have one, too. After you left, the two nice ladies said you probably knew about your upcoming move months ago and made no attempt to find me another good home. They shook their heads and asked "How could you?" They are as attentive to us, here in the shelter, as their busy schedules allow. They feed us, of course, but I lost my appetite days ago. At first, whenever anyone passed my pen, I rushed to the front, hoping it was you that you had changed your mind that this was all a bad dream...or I hoped it would at least be someone who cared, anyone who might save me. When I realized I could not compete with the frolicking for attention of happy puppies oblivious to their own fate, I retreated to a far corner and waited. I heard her footsteps as she came for me at the end of the day.  I padded along the aisle after her to a separate room - a blissfully quiet room.  She placed me on the table and rubbed my ears, and told me not to worry. My heart pounded in anticipation of what was to come, but there was also a sense of relief. As is my nature, I was more concerned about her. The burden which she bears weighs heavily on her, and I know that, the same way I knew your every mood. She gently placed a tourniquet around my foreleg as a tear ran down her cheek. I licked her hand in the same way I used to comfort you so many years ago. She expertly slid the hypodermic needle into my vein. As I felt the sting and the cool liquid coursing through my body, I lay down sleepily, looked into her kind eyes and murmured "How could you?" Perhaps because she understood my dog-speak, she said "I'm so sorry." She hugged me, and hurriedly explained it was her job to make sure I went to a better place, where I wouldn't be ignored or abused or abandoned, or have to fend for myself-a place of love and light so very different from this earthly place.

Copyright Jim Willis 1999
Excerpted from his book "Pieces of My Heart - Writings Inspired by Animals and Nature"

The Elgin Humane Society receives many animal surrenders from owners in this situation each year.  Please help us to be able to continue to save the Dixies.  Dixie and others like her need you today!

 

Adoption

 

Adopting A Friend 

Adoptions are made any time during regular business hours and at our special adoption events... after hours appointments can be made. We have worked hard to provide these affordable adoption fees:

Rates below are for all adoptions!

$95 for large breed adult dogs and $150 for puppies (6 months and younger)& small breed adult dogs*- which includes spay/neuter when dog issix months old or older, age appropriate vaccinations, de-worming if necessary, microchipping, and an adoption bag of Science Diet food. 

$75 for cats and kittens alike*- which includes spay/neuter when cat is six months old or older, age appropriate vaccinations, de-worming if necessary, and an adoption bag of Science Diet food (while supplies last).

We reserve the right to do a home visit before or after any adoption.

We will contact you within 1-2 weeks after your adoption to see how things are going and to answer any questions that may have come up.

*We reserve the right to change adoption fees at any time. Please check our Dogs or Cats page for current adoption fees per animal. Some may be at a discounted rate.

SPAYING or NEUTERING is REQUIRED. We will provide a voucher to you if the animal is not already spayed or neutered. This voucher can only be used at our vet of choice - Dr Graef in Taylor, TX. If you elect not to use our vet, you will pay full price at your vet of choice... then we will refund $25 to you upon receiving verification of surgery. Again, this is a REQUIREMENT.


Tootsie

(Updated Weekly)

Hi, my name is Tootsie! I'm 10 months old, neutered and up-to-date on my shots. I'm loveable, laid back and I get along well with other animals. I'll be looking forward to meeting you soon so please come to meet me at the shelter. For more information please cal l512-285-9636, or stop by at 725 West Cleveland Street, Elgin, TX 78621.


***Buddy***

This is a story about Buddy whois a three year old, 55 lb. short hair border collie. This is full disclosure of his bad habits... he just needs a single man owner... no kids in the house. If you're a single guy, this might be the perfect animal for you.
 
His owner writes:
 
"...Buddy 'goes to the bathroom' on command. Very helpful when it's freezing outside. He is up to date on all shots and heart worm treatments. He Is a sweet dog and easy to train if you are biggerthan him. Although I taught him how to sit, lay down and take dog cookies gently. We bought him from a breeder of short haired border collies but have no papers. He was always a shy puppy, and frightened by loud noises, things like the vacuum."
 
"Buddywas nipping when he was very young, and for a time growled and snapped if you got near his food. We trained him to wait and take food nicely from our hands. He has bitten teenage boys. He has bitten my younger girl, 18, once over food he had stolen. He bit the four year old daughter of a good friend of mine twice. My friend said it was her daughter's fault, that she was bothering him. He recently escaped out of
ourhome twice. Hewent charging at a kid at the end of our street one day...", "...my 19 year old daughter got him to stop but he rolled over and when she reached for his collar he snapped at her, then at me. He rolls over in submission when we finally get him to stop."
 
"It's a sad situation and I really wonder if there is any chance for him at all. If he were smaller, I feel I would have more options. But he is very strong and I am only 5'1" and 100 lbs. My husband is 6'2" so you can see the difference in how he would behave with me and my daughters-all very small and tiny."
 
Anyway, he bites children and it would seem some miracle person would have to appear magically to help Buddy out."
 
Please contact Lisa at if you would like to set up a visit or are interested in adopting Buddy. You would be saving a life!
 
 

 

More Background on The Elgin Humane Society

The Elgin Humane Society, once a cornerstone of animal welfare in Elgin, Texas, played a vital role in promoting the humane treatment of animals and fostering a culture of compassion within the community. Though the organization has since closed, its mission, history, and impact remain noteworthy. This article provides an in-depth exploration of the Elgin Humane Society’s operations, cultural significance, challenges, and enduring legacy.

History and Mission

The Elgin Humane Society was established as a non-profit organization dedicated to preventing cruelty to animals, alleviating their suffering, and promoting humane education. Its mission extended beyond basic animal care to include public education on responsible pet ownership and advocacy for animal rights. The Society worked closely with the Elgin Animal Control Officer and local shelters to provide monetary and non-monetary support aimed at improving the lives of animals.

The organization also sought to address systemic issues such as overpopulation through spaying/neutering programs and vaccinations. By reducing euthanasia rates and advocating against practices like prolonged chaining of animals outdoors, the Society aimed to create a more compassionate community.

Adoption Programs

One of the primary functions of the Elgin Humane Society was facilitating pet adoptions. The organization offered affordable adoption fees that included essential services such as spaying/neutering, vaccinations, deworming, microchipping, and even a starter bag of Science Diet food. Adoption fees were structured as follows:

  • Large Breed Adult Dogs: $95

  • Puppies and Small Breed Adult Dogs: $150

  • Cats and Kittens: $75

These fees ensured that animals were well-prepared for their new homes while making adoption accessible to a broader audience. The Society also reserved the right to conduct home visits before or after adoption to ensure that pets were placed in safe and suitable environments.

Community Engagement

The Elgin Humane Society was deeply embedded in the local community. Volunteers played an essential role in its operations, assisting with animal care, events, and administrative tasks. The organization frequently hosted special adoption events and allowed after-hours appointments to accommodate potential adopters.

Additionally, the Society collaborated with local veterinarians to provide spay/neuter vouchers for adopters who chose not to use the organization's designated veterinary clinic. This initiative reinforced the importance of responsible pet ownership while offering flexibility to adopters.

Closure and Transition

Despite its significant contributions to animal welfare, the Elgin Humane Society eventually closed its doors. According to reports from 2015, all stray animals in Elgin are now handled by the Elgin Police Department’s Animal Control Officer and taken to the Bastrop County Animal Shelter on Cool River Drive.

The closure marked the end of an era for the community but highlighted broader challenges faced by animal shelters nationwide. Limited funding, high operational costs, and increasing numbers of surrendered or abandoned pets often strain resources beyond capacity.

Cultural and Social Significance

The Elgin Humane Society was more than just an animal shelter; it was a symbol of compassion and humanity within the community. Its work underscored values deeply rooted in American culture—kindness toward animals, responsibility for their well-being, and advocacy for their rights.

Stories shared by the organization often resonated deeply with audiences. For instance, heartfelt narratives like "How Could You?"—a poignant tale about an abandoned dog—served as powerful reminders of the bond between humans and animals. These stories not only highlighted the emotional depth of pet ownership but also encouraged empathy and action among readers.

Challenges in Animal Welfare

The challenges faced by the Elgin Humane Society are not unique. Across the United States, animal shelters grapple with issues such as overcrowding, limited funding, and public misconceptions about shelter animals. These challenges underscore the importance of community support—both financial and volunteer-based—and innovative approaches to animal welfare.

Organizations like Anderson Humane in South Elgin, Illinois, offer valuable lessons on how shelters can adapt to these challenges. Anderson Humane has successfully transitioned into a progressive humane society by integrating human services with animal welfare programs. Their initiatives include:

  • Low-Cost Veterinary Services: Making essential care accessible to pet owners.

  • Pet Food Pantries: Helping families keep their pets during financial hardships.

  • Temporary Housing for Pets: Assisting families during crises such as domestic violence or natural disasters.

Such programs demonstrate how shelters can expand their impact by addressing both animal welfare and broader social issues.

Press & Media Coverage

Media coverage often plays a crucial role in shaping public perceptions of animal shelters. For example:

  • Stories about successful rescues or adoptions highlight the positive impact of shelters on individual animals' lives.

  • Coverage of grants or donations showcases community support while encouraging others to contribute.

  • Narratives about challenges faced by shelters—such as overcrowding or funding shortages—raise awareness about systemic issues in animal welfare.

In the case of Anderson Humane, media attention surrounding high-profile rescues (e.g., saving over 100 beagles from unethical breeding facilities) has not only elevated its profile but also inspired greater public engagement.

Legacy of Compassion

Although the Elgin Humane Society no longer operates, its legacy endures through its contributions to animal welfare and its impact on countless lives—both human and animal. The organization’s efforts have inspired other shelters and individuals to continue advocating for humane treatment and responsible pet ownership.

For those who wish to honor this legacy, there are many ways to get involved:

  1. Support Local Shelters: Donate money or supplies or volunteer your time.

  2. Adopt Responsibly: Choose adoption over purchasing pets from breeders or pet stores.

  3. Advocate for Change: Promote spaying/neutering programs and educate others about humane treatment of animals.

By taking these steps, we can collectively build on the foundation laid by organizations like the Elgin Humane Society.

 

The story of the Elgin Humane Society serves as both an inspiration and a call to action. It reminds us of our shared responsibility toward animals—a responsibility that extends beyond providing shelter to fostering a culture of respect, protection, and connection between humans and their four-legged companions.

While its physical presence is gone, its spirit lives on in every act of kindness toward animals within the community it once served so passionately.

 
 
ElginHumaneSociety.com