Wags to Riches on Saturday brought the community together for an evening that balanced celebration with purpose, all in support of the Hill Country Humane Society.
This year’s fundraiser focused on a surgical center to be constructed within an existing shell on the shelter’s property, a project highlighted by Dr. Dan McBride during the evening’s program. The planned facility stands to reshape how care is delivered across the region. Once finished, it will allow the organization to significantly increase its spay and neuter capacity, helping reduce unwanted litters and easing the number of animals entering the shelter. It will also allow shelter animals to receive timely treatment, recover more quickly, and move into adoptive homes sooner, while strengthening the organization’s ability to respond during high intake periods or emergencies.
Executive Director Paighton Corley emphasized that the long-term goal is to move beyond crisis response.
“We are not just here to rescue the animal in front of us,” Corley said. “We are working toward a community where fewer animals end up in crisis in the first place, and that starts with access to care.”
That approach is already showing results. The organization has grown from 335 adoptions in 2021 to a record 980 last year, even while taking in hundreds more
Wags to Riches ... Page 3 From Page 1 animals. At the same time, its mobile MASH program continues to expand preventative care, surpassing 1,000 spay and neuter surgeries just four months into this year.
Wags to Riches
The evening also recognized the people behind that progress. Carolyn Tausch was named Volunteer of the Year, acknowledging her consistent, hands-on commitment to the animals and the day-to-day work that keeps the shelter moving forward. Her willingness to step in wherever needed has made a meaningful impact.
A special recognition was also given to David Vaughn, whose contributions continue to shape both the present and future of the organization. His steady presence, hands-on approach, and willingness to take on whatever task is needed have made him an integral part of the organization’s progress. Those involved with the organization say much of its progress reflects his steady, behind-thescenes work, driven not by recognition, but by a consistent willingness to step in and help.
Support from the community and local sponsors helped make the evening possible. Title sponsorship was provided by Kathy and Alan Trevino with Sentry Investigations, the UGP raffle was sponsored by Bluebonnet Veterinary Clinic, and Bobby and Susan Gallagher represented the Champion Sponsor level. Guests also enjoyed a dinner catered by Blue Corn Harvest.
Saturday’s event reflected that shared commitment, with community members coming together in support of a future where care is more accessible and outcomes are improved before animals reach a point of crisis. For those looking to get involved, the need for support remains ongoing. The Hill Country Humane Society welcomes volunteers, adopters, and donors alike, and can be reached at 9150 W RM 1431 in Buchanan Dam, by phone at (512) 793-5463, or by email at [email protected]. Financial contributions can also be made directly through their website at hchstexas.com/donate, helping continue the work of caring for and improving the lives of animals in the community.
“Because if we want to truly change outcomes for animals, we cannot only respond once they are already in crisis,” Corley said. “We have to reach further. We have to step in sooner. And we have to make care possible for the people and pets who need it most.”
