Within 20 minutes of receiving an evacuation order during the July 15 flooding, the City of Boerne’s Animal Care Services team safely relocated dozens of animals as rapidly rising floodwater threatened the shelter.
At 10:33 a.m., upon hearing of the rising water levels, Boerne Police Chief Steve Perez ordered the evacuation after water from Currey Creek began rising quickly toward the shelter before flowing into the already swollen Cibolo Creek.
The shelter’s outdoor dog play areas, where many dogs spend much of their day, were submerged beneath 3 to 4 feet of water. Floodwater also damaged the outdoor kennels and play spaces.
As Animal Care Services staff completed the evacuation and left the property, the water had already risen to the bumpers of their vehicles. By 10:53 a.m., staff had safely relocated 30 cats and 17 dogs and left the facility.
“This is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. I’ve never seen the water rise that high or that fast,” ACS Supervisor Stefanie Fisher said. “I’m incredibly proud of how quickly our team came together under very stressful conditions to protect the animals in our care while also looking out for one another’s safety.”
Fisher also credits the Kendall County Animal Shelter for its assistance during the emergency. The shelter accepted many of the displaced animals, providing a safe temporary home while floodwater receded and recovery efforts began.
City officials also recognized the dedication of Animal Care Services staff, who acted quickly despite rapidly changing conditions to ensure the safety of the animals entrusted to their care. Their swift response allowed every cat and dog to be relocated before floodwater prevented them from leaving the facility.
