Description
The Upper Valley Humane Society was established in 1973 by a group of concerned citizens. After approaching the city of McAllen, the Society took over the operation of the McAllen-based shelter. In 1981, UVHS received a donation of 2 1/2 acres of land located on Trenton in Edinburg. An additional 2 1/2 acres was purchased for a total of 5 acres. Contributions from the surrounding cities as well as donations from local citizens, including $50,000 from Bob Sobel and a $100,000 bequest from L.L. Rowan, secured the construction of the current facility. On October 31, 1983, the new shelter opened, containing 56 dog runs and 60 cat cages.
In recent years, additions have been made to the shelter to accommodate the increasing influx of animals each year. In 2000, the Weslaco Humane Society closed and UVHS became the only animal care facility for the entire Hidalgo County area. On average, UVHS receives 80 to100 animals every day and we house 250 dogs and 130 cats on a daily basis. For the last two years, the shelter received more than 40,000 animals each year.
These astronomical figures, along with a vision of controlling pet overpopulation, inspired our spay/neuter clinic. The clinic opened in June 2001 with Dr. Nance presiding as veterinarian, and provided low-cost spay and neuter services to the public. Unfortunately, Dr. Nance relocated in November 2003, and the clinic is temporarily closed. We are currently searching for a new veterinarian and maintain a positive perspective that we will have a new veterinarian soon.
As the population of McAllen and surrounding cities increases, so does the number of unwanted pets. The needs of UVHS also increase on a daily basis. We appreciate all your support and generous contributions to help our facility keep its doors open.
