August 14, 2006

Choosing between a cuddly cat or an energetic and playful kitten up for adoption at the Bureau of Animal Regulation and Care (BARC) is easier now that the Houston Department of Health and Human Services has set up Kitty Korner.

People can use Kitty Korner, a bright, cheery, air-conditioned room full of toys, to visit, play with and get to know the kittens and cats at BARC, 3200 Carr.

“You don’t really get to know an animal behind a cage,” said Kent Robertson, BARC’s new bureau chief. “Kitty Korner will help people considering adoption whether the cat they like will jump in their lap to give and get a lot of attention or sit nearby offering companionship.”

Kitty Korner is open daily from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. The cost of adopting a cat is $55 and includes vaccinations, spaying or neutering, feline leukemia/FIV test, worming, and microchip.

BARC shelters about 5,600 unwanted, lost or stray cats every year.

BARC also offers dogs for adoption, vaccinates against rabies, rescues and shelters lost and stray animals, licenses dogs and cats, investigates reported animal bites and enforces Houston’s animal ordinances.

Responsible pet ownership includes vaccinating pets against rabies, spaying or neutering and providing veterinary care, identification, food, water, exercise, grooming and love and affection.

For more information about Kitty Korner or BARC, call 713-238-9600.