Imagine a place where friends not just find a home, but a haven. The local Laredo Animal Protective Society (LAPS) organization is turning the tide for animals in need.
According to Sandra Solis, Board Member, LAPS founded in 1951, is recognized as the city’s most beloved animal shelter. In 2026, LAPS will celebrate an incredible milestone — 75 years of service, dedication and compassion for animals and the people who love them.
This month as they celebrate National Dog Day, LAPS honors the loyal companions who bring unconditional love and joy into the dogs’ lives. Dogs are at the heart of their mission since the very beginning inspiring generations of Laredo families to open their homes and hearts through adoption.
Over the decades, LAPS has grown alongside the city of Laredo. With a rising population and a new generation of animal lovers, the shelter has adapted to meet ever-changing needs. Yet one challenge continues to affect the community and many others nationwide — shortage of veterinary professionals. The demand for spay and neuter services is higher than ever.
To meet this challenge, LAPS has worked for more than twenty-five years in partnership with the United Way of Laredo and other foundations to make care more accessible. Solis noted, “Through their generosity and steadfast support, United Way has been instrumental
in contributing to our mission and ensuring our programs continues to grow. SNAP (Spay /Neuter Assistance Program gives families an affordable way to spay or neuter their pets. This not only helps reduce the pet overpopulation, but also protects pets from serious health risks allowing them to live longer, healthier lives.”
LAPS’ mission extends beyond adoption. The organization is committed to keeping pets and families together through a variety of community programs including:
As LAPS approaches its 75th anniversary, the shelter looks back with gratitude on its journey and forward with hope for the future. Together with the United Way of Laredo, our community partners and the many animal lovers LAPS will continue to build a more compassionate city where every pet, especially our beloved dogs, have a chance to live healthy and loved lives.
With every wagging tail and bark, LAPS in Laredo is not just changing lives; its weaving a tapestry of love and second chances. A little compassion goes a long way; a pet from LAPS might just be your new best friend.
Ms. Luisa Ortiz is the Shelter’s Director. She can be reached at 956-724-8364.
To meet this challenge, LAPS has worked for more than twenty-five years in partnership with the United Way of Laredo and other foundations to make care more accessible. Solis noted, “Through their generosity and steadfast support, United Way has been instrumental
in contributing to our mission and ensuring our programs continues to grow. SNAP (Spay /Neuter Assistance Program gives families an affordable way to spay or neuter their pets. This not only helps reduce the pet overpopulation, but also protects pets from serious health risks allowing them to live longer, healthier lives.”
LAPS’ mission extends beyond adoption. The organization is committed to keeping pets and families together through a variety of community programs including:
As LAPS approaches its 75th anniversary, the shelter looks back with gratitude on its journey and forward with hope for the future. Together with the United Way of Laredo, our community partners and the many animal lovers LAPS will continue to build a more compassionate city where every pet, especially our beloved dogs, have a chance to live healthy and loved lives.
With every wagging tail and bark, LAPS in Laredo is not just changing lives; its weaving a tapestry of love and second chances. A little compassion goes a long way; a pet from LAPS might just be your new best friend.
Ms. Luisa Ortiz is the Shelter’s Director. She can be reached at 956-724-8364.
If you have an upcoming community event or information on a non-profit 501(c)(3) charitable organization you would like to share, please email me at 956cuidandolonuestro@gmail.com
Carolyn M. Schmies
United Way of Laredo
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