Over 600 animals euthanized in Bell County, Texas

BELTON, Texas (KWTX) - With over 600 animals being euthanized at the bell county animal shelter since January, residents want to see a change.

Bell county commissioner for precinct 4, Louie minor, said he was surprised at the large number and is pushing for it to become a no-kill shelter.

He explained the county is spending $620,000 on the animal shelter, however 85% of the budget is going toward staff salaries.

Minor said the most he can do in this situation is to reset the budget and no longer have the Bell County Sheriff’s Office oversee the animal shelter.

“It’s very evident that there’s an issue that requires the commissioners court to look at. There’s been over 600 animals euthanized at the bell county animal shelter. That’s unacceptable to me, and that’s unacceptable to all the people that came here today,” said Minor.

Bell county animal shelter consultant, Ronald Ducharme, said the sheriff’s office is doing the best it can with limited resources.

However, he said everyone needs to come together to fix the issue.

People at the meeting like Journey Home Rescue co-founder, Frances Fischer gave their input on what should be prioritized like spay and neuter programs, trained shelter staff, foster programs and more.

“We need to catch up with the times, we need to move forward. We need to add more kennels and upgrade our facility to where the cats and dogs aren’t being euthanized on a regular basis,” said Fisher.

Minor said a no kill shelter can happen, but not without the people.

“The more you all come to meetings, get involved, and talk to commissioners, it will happen,” said Minor.

Minor said Monday is the commissioner court meeting where he plans on bringing up the animal shelter’s budget.

If you would like to support, he said it will be held at the bell county historic courthouse at 1:30 p.m.

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