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Former McAllen Commissioner Endorses Felida Villarreal in District 5 Race

Roberto H. Gonzalez
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Former McAllen Commissioner Endorses Felida Villarreal in District 5 Race
John Ingram. Courtesy image
John Ingram. Courtesy image

Texas Border Business

By Roberto Hugo González / Texas Border Business 

McALLEN, Texas — Former McAllen District 5 Commissioner John Ingram has announced his endorsement of Felida Villarreal in the upcoming city commission race, citing her experience, community ties, and approach to leadership as reasons for his support.

Felida Villarreal. Courtesy image

Ingram, who represented District 5 from 2004 to 2018, said his endorsement is based on his understanding of the role and the district’s needs. His tenure included a range of projects focused on infrastructure, neighborhood development, and economic growth.

During his time in office, Ingram was involved in initiatives such as developing the McAllen Historic District, constructing a new public library, a convention center, and a performing arts center, as well as drainage improvements in flood-prone areas. He also pointed to neighborhood-level efforts, including community cleanups, code enforcement initiatives, and the repurposing of vacant buildings into projects such as the Art Incubator and the Old Church Winery.

Reflecting on his experience, Ingram said local leadership plays a significant role in residents’ daily lives. “People have concerns and need to be listened to,” he said, adding that accessibility and follow-through are key components of effective public service.

Ingram said he considered those factors in evaluating Felida. A McAllen native, Felida is a certified public accountant and CEO of VIDA, where she oversees workforce development programs, federal grants, and large-scale budgets.

“Felida was born and raised in McAllen,” Ingram said. He cited her professional background, communication skills, and familiarity with the community as factors that informed his decision. He also pointed to her financial experience as relevant to managing city resources.

District 5 includes a mix of residential neighborhoods, commercial corridors, and the city’s downtown and entertainment areas. According to Ingram, the district faces ongoing issues such as infrastructure needs, traffic, code enforcement, and maintaining the character of established neighborhoods while accommodating growth.

Although now retired and living in Buffalo, Texas, Ingram said he remains interested in the district’s future. He lived in District 5 for more than two decades and said his endorsement reflects a continued connection to the area.

He also emphasized the importance of local elections, noting that city officials often have a direct impact on services, development, and quality of life. He encouraged voters to consider candidates’ experience, responsiveness, and approach to public service.

As the District 5 race continues, Ingram’s endorsement adds the perspective of a former officeholder with long-term experience in the role. His support highlights the ongoing discussion about leadership priorities in one of McAllen’s most diverse districts.

Celebration of 30 Years of VAMOS Driving Education and Opportunity in the Rio Grande Valley

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Celebration of 30 Years of VAMOS Driving Education and Opportunity in the Rio Grande Valley
Dr. Armando Moncada, Maria Guadalupe de Orozco, Jason Gonzalez, and Mary de Leon stand beside the 2026 Lexus grand prize at the VAMOS 30th Annual Golf Tournament, celebrating three decades of expanding educational opportunities in the Rio Grande Valley. Courtesy image
Dr. Armando Moncada, Maria Guadalupe de Orozco, Jason Gonzalez, and Mary de Leon stand beside the 2026 Lexus grand prize at the VAMOS 30th Annual Golf Tournament, celebrating three decades of expanding educational opportunities in the Rio Grande Valley. Courtesy image

Texas Border Business

By Roberto Hugo González / Texas Border Business

Valley Alliance of Mentors for Opportunities and Scholarships (VAMOS) marked its 30th annual golf tournament on March 7, 2026, combining fundraising, community participation, and scholarship support in an event that VAMOS described as central to expanding educational access in the Rio Grande Valley.

At the event, VAMOS announced that Maria Guadalupe de Orozco, owner of Las Margaritas Restaurant in Pharr, won the grand-prize raffle: a 2026 Lexus. According to event organizers, she purchased her raffle ticket through charitable efforts led by Lone Star National Bank in support of VAMOS scholarships.

The annual tournament is supported by regional and national partners, including DHR Health, Lone Star National Bank, and North Park Lexus Rio Grande Valley. Organizers state that these partnerships are key to sustaining the event and its fundraising goals.

According to VAMOS, the program provides four-year renewable scholarships of up to $20,000 to first-generation, low-income students across the region. The organization reports that it has raised more than $27 million and awarded scholarships to over 1,400 students since its founding. VAMOS further states that its scholars have a 96% graduation rate, compared with an approximate national average of 61%.

Program leaders emphasize that the long-term impact extends beyond financial aid. VAMOS reports that scholars are paired with mentors who provide ongoing guidance throughout college, with the stated goal of ensuring students complete bachelor’s degrees within four years and transition into professional careers.

Organizers state that many graduates return to support the program through mentorship and philanthropy, contributing to what they describe as a cycle of educational advancement and community investment in the Rio Grande Valley.

Based on this year’s fundraising results, VAMOS anticipates increasing the number of scholarships available to graduating high school seniors. The organization states that the application deadline is April 3, 2026, and directs prospective applicants and supporters to its official website and program contacts for additional information.

For more information on the VAMOS Scholarship Program and how you can get involved, please visit vamosscholars.org or contact Mary de Leon at vamosed@vamosscholars.org.

Garver Grant Enhances Hands‑On Learning for STC Architectural Engineering and Design Technology Students

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Garver Grant Enhances Hands‑On Learning for STC Architectural Engineering and Design Technology Students
South Texas College Architectural Engineering and Design Technology (AEDT) students recently received a grant from Garver to help provide materials students can use to build models and complete coursework tied to architecture and civil engineering design. STC image
South Texas College Architectural Engineering and Design Technology (AEDT) students recently received a grant from Garver to help provide materials students can use to build models and complete coursework tied to architecture and civil engineering design. STC image

Texas Border Business

By Joey Gomez  

McALLEN, Texas – South Texas College Architectural Engineering and Design Technology (AEDT) students recently received a boost to hands-on learning thanks to a grant from Garver, a multidisciplinary engineering firm locally based in Harlingen.

The award, presented during AEDT’s annual open house event contributes $1,000 to help provide materials students can use to build models and complete coursework tied to architecture and civil engineering design.

The donation will help cover the cost of materials used in hands-on coursework, ensuring future designers and technicians have the tools they need to succeed.

STC leadership says the support strengthens the program’s ability to offer real-world experience while connecting students with industry professionals. Partnerships like those with Garver play a critical role in preparing students for careers in the design and engineering fields.

“It’s great when we have industry partners like Garver that donate to our programs,” said Jose Vela, interim dean for STC’s Business, Public Safety and Technology (BPST) division. “It goes a long way to help the students because they build models and use a variety of materials in their coursework.”

The grant is part of GarverGives, a company initiative that encourages employees to volunteer and support educational and community programs, particularly in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

Erica Mata, a MicroStation design team leader with Garver’s water team and STC alumna, said the company hopes the contribution helps students see the opportunities available within industry.

“Today’s presentation is really about introducing Garver to the students and letting them know who we are and what we offer,” Mata said. “The main point is giving them advice for their careers so they can succeed in the future.”

Garver, which has operated for more than a century and maintains dozens of offices across the United States, focuses primarily on water, transportation and aviation infrastructure projects. The Harlingen office concentrates on water systems and related engineering services.

Mata, who graduated from STC in 2010, said the college helped lay the foundation for her career and encouraged students to take advantage of every opportunity available to them.

“We offer internships across many of our offices, and students are always welcome to stop by or even job shadow if they are interested,” Mata said. “The biggest message is not to be afraid. Just get out there and do it.”

Rebecca Rodriguez, a Civil 3D CAD technician with Garver, echoed that message, encouraging students to remain open to growth as they begin their careers.

“Don’t be scared to try,” Rodriguez said. “Be willing to learn and grow in anything.”    

Texas Senator Reflects on Marine Deployment and Shared Experience of War

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Texas Senator Reflects on Marine Deployment and Shared Experience of War
Juan Hinojosa, a Democratic member of the Texas Senate, publicly commented on the recent deployment of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit to the Middle East, emphasizing concern for service members and their families while drawing on his own military experience. Image for illustration purposes
Juan Hinojosa, a Democratic member of the Texas Senate, publicly commented on the recent deployment of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit to the Middle East, emphasizing concern for service members and their families while drawing on his own military experience. Image for illustration purposes

Texas Border Business

By Roberto Hugo González / Texas Border Business

Juan Hinojosa, a Democratic member of the Texas Senate, publicly commented on the recent deployment of the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit to the Middle East, emphasizing concern for service members and their families while drawing on his own military experience.

In a Facebook post, Hinojosa wrote that “the Pentagon has deployed the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit — a rapid-response force of more than 2,000 Marines — to the Middle East to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz.” He did not provide additional operational details but framed the development as a significant military movement involving a large, ready-response Marine force.

Image: facebook

Hinojosa stated, “Regardless of how anyone feels about the war, I pray for a safe journey and a safe return for our troops.” He emphasized the voluntary nature of military service, writing that “these men and women have volunteered to serve our country” and “are willing to sacrifice their lives to defend our freedom and our way of life.”

He also highlighted the emotional impact on families, noting, “I also know how their families feel, knowing that their sons and daughters are headed to the front lines.” He concluded his message with a call for public support, asking others to “join me in praying for these Marines, all our troops, their families, and for a safe return home,” and signed off with “Semper Fi,” a traditional Marine Corps motto.

Hinojosa’s remarks are shaped by his background as a Vietnam War veteran. He served in the United States Marine Corps, an experience he referenced directly in his post, writing, “As a USMC Vietnam veteran, I know what it’s like to be deployed.” Public records confirm that Hinojosa served during the Vietnam era, and his military service has been a consistent part of his public biography.

Following his service, Hinojosa pursued a legal career and later entered public office. He has represented South Texas in the Texas Senate for decades, focusing on education, economic development, and border policy. His statements on military matters often reflect both his legislative role and his personal experience as a Marine veteran.

DEA, U.S. Marshals, and Mexican Authorities Help Edinburg PD Capture Murder Suspect

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DEA, U.S. Marshals, and Mexican Authorities Help Edinburg PD Capture Murder Suspect
After more than two years, Ramirez was located and apprehended through a coordinated effort involving the Drug Enforcement Administration, the United States Marshals Service, the Hidalgo County District Attorney’s Office, and Mexican law enforcement authorities. Image courtesy of The city of Edinburg
After more than two years, Ramirez was located and apprehended through a coordinated effort involving the Drug Enforcement Administration, the United States Marshals Service, the Hidalgo County District Attorney’s Office, and Mexican law enforcement authorities. Image courtesy of The city of Edinburg

Texas Border Business

EDINBURG, Texas – The Edinburg Police Department provided an update on a homicide investigation that began on March 2, 2024.

After more than two years, Ramirez was located and apprehended through a coordinated effort involving the Drug Enforcement Administration, the United States Marshals Service, the Hidalgo County District Attorney’s Office, and Mexican law enforcement authorities. He was transferred to U.S. custody and is now being held at the Hidalgo County Jail.

“This arrest demonstrates our unwavering commitment to justice. No matter how long it takes or how far someone runs, our investigators will continue working with our partners to hold those responsible accountable,” said Edinburg Police Chief Jaime Ayala. “This arrest highlights the strong collaboration between local, state, federal, and international law enforcement agencies. Despite the suspect fleeing across the border, coordinated investigative efforts led to the successful apprehension.”

Edinburg investigators later learned the second suspect, Fernando Amaya Orona, died in Mexico.

“Ramirez was not only a violent offender, but he posed as a threat to the Edinburg community and the safety of its residents,” said DEA McAllen Assistant Special Agent in Charge Eric Castaneda.

Due to the ongoing nature of the investigation, no additional details are being released at this time.

Federal Agencies Unveil Partnership to Overhaul Student Aid Administration

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Federal Agencies Unveil Partnership to Overhaul Student Aid Administration
Currently, ED’s student loan portfolio stands at nearly $1.7 trillion with fewer than 40 percent of borrowers in repayment and almost 25 percent of borrowers in default. Image for illustration purposes
Currently, ED’s student loan portfolio stands at nearly $1.7 trillion with fewer than 40 percent of borrowers in repayment and almost 25 percent of borrowers in default. Image for illustration purposes

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U.S. Department of Education

Washington DC – The U.S. Department of Education (ED) and the U.S. Department of the Treasury (Treasury) announced the Federal Student Assistance Partnership to enhance the administration of Federal student aid programs, mitigate the continuing fallout and cost to taxpayers from the Biden Administration’s mismanagement of the Federal student loan portfolio, and facilitate the return of defaulted borrowers to repayment.

Currently, ED’s student loan portfolio stands at nearly $1.7 trillion with fewer than 40 percent of borrowers in repayment and almost 25 percent of borrowers in default. Student loan debt is roughly twice the size of all American university endowments combined and is larger than either our nation’s cumulative credit card debt or cumulative auto debt. ED was never intended to operate what would be the fifth-largest commercial bank in the United States, distributing over $100 billion each year in Federal student loans and grants.

“The Federal Student Assistance Partnership marks an intentional and historic step toward breaking up the Federal education bureaucracy and dramatically improving the administration of Federal student aid programs that millions of American students, families, and borrowers rely on to access higher education,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon. “As the Federal student aid portfolio soars to nearly $1.7 trillion and with nearly a quarter of student loan borrowers in default, Americans know that the Department of Education has failed to effectively manage and deliver these critical programs. By leveraging Treasury’s world-renowned expertise in finance and economic policy, we are confident that American students, borrowers, and taxpayers will finally have functioning programs after decades of mismanagement.”

Under the new interagency agreement, Treasury will assume operational responsibility for collecting on defaulted Federal student loan debt and provide operational support to ED’s efforts to return borrowers to repayment. In subsequent phases, Treasury will work to provide operational support over non-defaulted Federal student loan debt, to the extent practicable and permitted by law, while also seeking opportunities to provide operational support to FSA’s other functions.

“Under President Trump’s leadership we are undertaking the first serious effort to clean up a $1.7 trillion portfolio that has been badly mismanaged for years. Treasury has the unique experience, the operational capability, and the financial expertise to bring long overdue financial discipline to the program and be better stewards of taxpayer dollars,” said U.S. Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent.

Throughout each phase of the partnership, ED, in conjunction with Treasury, will communicate directly with stakeholders, including students, parents, borrowers, institutions, and vendors, to outline anticipated plans and timelines and address any questions. Building on the Trump Administration’s successful efforts to fix the Free Application for Federal Student Aid form, the agencies will ensure that the partnership is implemented effectively and enhances the delivery of Federal financial aid for students and families.

This agreement follows nine agency partnerships signed over the past year, including the workforce development partnership with the U.S. Department of Labor, which has created an integrated Federal education and workforce system and reduced the need for States to consult multiple agencies to effectively manage their programs.

View the Federal Student Assistance Partnership fact sheet here.

Information source: US Department of Education

DEA Seizes Millions of Fentanyl Pills in 2026 Crackdown on Drug Cartels

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DEA Seizes Millions of Fentanyl Pills in 2026 Crackdown on Drug Cartels
Marking a powerful start to 2026, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration dealt a significant blow to drug trafficking networks during Phase II of Operation Fentanyl Free America. Image for illustration purposes
Marking a powerful start to 2026, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration dealt a significant blow to drug trafficking networks during Phase II of Operation Fentanyl Free America. Image for illustration purposes

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U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration

LOS ANGELES –Marking a powerful start to 2026, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration dealt a significant blow to drug trafficking networks during Phase II of Operation Fentanyl Free America. Between January 12 and February 10, 2026, DEA seized more than 4.7 million fentanyl pills and nearly 2,396 pounds of fentanyl powder resulting in more than 57 million deadly doses of fentanyl removed from communities in just thirty-days. 

Eliminating the threat of fentanyl remains a top priority for DEA.  By dismantling these complex transnational criminal organizations and disrupting the intricate illicit financial systems that fund the cartels, DEA is upholding its commitment to the American people to make their communities safer. 

“The drug poisoning epidemic has been cultivated by designated terrorist cartels who operate like multi-billion-dollar corporations and have weaponized fentanyl with the clear objective to increase America’s dependence on illicit drugs,” said DEA Administrator Terrance Cole. “It will take a targeted, collaborative response to preserve our future. Drug seizures in the United States strike directly at cartel profits, while efforts to disrupt supply chains and dismantle money laundering networks deliver consequences far beyond our borders. Meanwhile, we must reach into our communities nationwide and share the simple truth: One Pill Can Kill. Enforcement saves lives. Education prevents the next tragedy. Together, we can end this crisis.”

“For some families, a chair remains empty at the dinner table. Graduations, weddings, and other would-be milestones are excruciating reminders of a void that can’t be filled—of a life taken too soon. We know fentanyl is the culprit,” said Anthony Chrysanthis, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Los Angeles Field Division. “The Fentanyl Free America campaign is our promise to those families, and to all Americans, that DEA’s battle against fentanyl is ever resolute. We have launched a targeted, maximum-effort crackdown against drug cartels and global drug networks that operate an assembly line of poison. We will halt the flow of fentanyl. Just as important, DEA will continue to work with families, educators, health partners, and other community stakeholders to share drug education and draw awareness to the dangers of fentanyl and other destructive drugs.”

Synthetic drugs like fentanyl and methamphetamine are manufactured on an industrial scale in poly-drug clandestine labs, often using precursor chemicals and pill presses. Transnational criminal organizations often deal in multiple substances, which is reflected in the results of this surge. During this thirty-day operation, DEA also seized 147,797 pounds of cocaine, nearly 21,000 pounds of methamphetamine, more than 26 million methamphetamine pills, 1,183 pounds of heroin, 65,000 pounds of illicit marijuana, more than 1,500 firearms, and led to more than 3,000 arrests nationwide. 

DEA launched the Fentanyl Free America initiative in October 2025 with a renewed focus on targeted enforcement operations on illicit drug networks, ensuring DEA registrants are working within the closed system of distribution, and increasing public awareness to reduce both the supply and demand of illicit drugs. This was the second targeted enforcement operation under the Fentanyl Free America initiative.

The DEA Los Angeles Field Division reported significant enforcement outcomes, including 104 arrests, the seizure of over $7 million U.S. Dollars in illicit proceeds, and the removal of 131,400 fentanyl pills from communities, preventing thousands of potential lethal doses from reaching communities.

DEA Info Graphic

Other Significant Fentanyl Free America Phase II Division Results:

  • The DEA Louisville Field Division’s Chattanooga Resident Office seized approximately 17 kilograms of fentanyl, two industrial grade pill presses, and two kilo-brick presses in January. This single seizure prevented nearly 9 million potentially lethal doses of fentanyl from reaching the American public.
     
  • An enforcement operation in Baltimore resulted in 43 arrests and the seizure of 7 kilograms of cocaine, 2 kilograms of a heroin, fentanyl mixture, 2 kilograms of fentanyl and 1,200 pounds of marijuana, 13 firearms and more than $200,000. 
     
  • An operation in Tucson, AZ resulted in the seizure of nearly 600,000 counterfeit fentanyl pills, preventing nearly 173,000 potential fentanyl poisonings.
     
  • The DEA New York Task Force removed 60,000 fentanyl pills from circulation following the arrest of a cartel-linked distributor.
     
  • Richie Pharmacal, a pharmaceutical distributor in Glasgow, Kentucky, received an Immediate Suspension Order (ISO) at the beginning of February for alleged compliance discrepancies and violations of the Controlled Substances Act.   

Information source: U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration

CBP Seizes Cocaine, Fentanyl, and Meth at Paso del Norte

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CBP Seizes Cocaine, Fentanyl, and Meth at Paso del Norte
U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers seized 139.5 kilograms of narcotics hidden in one pickup truck at the Paso de Norte Port of Entry on Feb. 28. Image for illustration purposes
U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers seized 139.5 kilograms of narcotics hidden in one pickup truck at the Paso de Norte Port of Entry on Feb. 28. Image for illustration purposes

Texas Border Business

El PASO, Texas — U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers seized 139.5 kilograms of narcotics hidden in one pickup truck at the Paso de Norte Port of Entry on Feb. 28.

CBP officers discovered the narcotics after a male Mexican national driving a white, 2016 Dodge Ram pickup truck with Mexican license plates applied for admission into the United States at the port of entry.

A nonintrusive inspection technology scan assisted the officers in identifying anomalies in the vehicle. A canine–trained to detect hidden narcotics and concealed humans–indicated the presence of narcotics in the vehicle. Upon further inspection, 122 bundles of narcotics were discovered. This includes 107 bundles of cocaine (122.84 kilograms), 13 bundles of fentanyl (14.86 kilograms), and two bundles of methamphetamine (1.84 kilograms).

“This a significant seizure of narcotics by our CBP officers at the port of entry. They have prevented a major narcotics load from entering the United States and causing harm to American citizens,” said Ray Provencio, port director, Port of El Paso. “My congratulations to my officers for a job well done.”

CBP officers arrested the driver, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office has accepted federal prosecution on the case. CBP officers also seized the vehicle and narcotics. Homeland Security Investigations special agents will continue the investigation as part of the Homeland Security Task Force. 

Governor Honored With Vietnam Veterans of America State Award

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Governor Honored With Vietnam Veterans of America State Award
Governor Greg Abbott celebrated the 107th birthday of the American Legion and received the National Vietnam Veterans of America State Award for Veteran Services in Austin. Photo: Office of The Governor
Governor Greg Abbott celebrated the 107th birthday of the American Legion and received the National Vietnam Veterans of America State Award for Veteran Services in Austin. Photo: Office of The Governor

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AUSTIN – Governor Greg Abbott celebrated the 107th birthday of the American Legion and received the National Vietnam Veterans of America State Award for Veteran Services in Austin. 

The Governor was joined by VVA Legislative Director Jim Brennan, VVA National Secretary Bill Meeks, and veterans of American Legion Post 76. Photo: Office of The Governor

“America truly is the greatest force for freedom the world has ever known, and the reason for that is because the United States of America has had the mightiest military in the history of the world. We as a state will continue to support those who served our country at home and abroad,” said Governor Abbott. “Texas is proud to be home to more veterans than any other state in the United States. The award we got today is a tangible way that shows Texas is at the top of our game, ensuring that we are providing our veterans with the support and resources they need and deserve. No state loves our veterans more than the great state of Texas.” 

“The American Legion is delighted to host Governor Abbott at our historic Post 76 in Austin in celebration of the American Legion’s 107th birthday,” said Commander Jim Brennan. “Our Post has been located at this same site overlooking Lady Bird Lake since purchasing the house in 1924. We are thankful for Governor Abbott and the State of Texas for their outstanding services supporting veterans and their families.”

Governor Abbott speaks to a crowd at the Governor’s mansion in Austin. Photo: Office of The Governor

The Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) supports veterans who served during the Vietnam War. The American Legion has spent over a century championing veterans’ benefits, patriotism, and community service.

VVA recognized Texas as one of the most veteran-friendly states, awarding the State Award for Veterans Services to Texas for the state’s excellence in pro-veteran state-level legislation, cost-of-living support for veterans, and employment and retirement security.

The Governor was joined by VVA Legislative Director Jim Brennan, VVA National Secretary Bill Meeks, and veterans of American Legion Post 76. 

Texas DSHS Unveils Low‑Cost Spay and Neuter Program for Pets

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Texas DSHS Unveils Low‑Cost Spay and Neuter Program for Pets
The Texas Spay and Neuter Program received $13 million from the legislature to fund the program for two years. Image for illustration purposes
The Texas Spay and Neuter Program received $13 million from the legislature to fund the program for two years. Image for illustration purposes

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The Texas Department of State Health Services launched a new sterilization program for dogs and cats, providing grant funds to 38 applicants to conduct these procedures across the state. The Texas Spay and Neuter Program received $13 million from the legislature to fund the program for two years. 

The pilot program received 119 applications from around the state. Those selected must employ or subcontract a veterinarian with extensive spay and neuter experience and also be licensed by the Texas Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners for a minimum of one year prior to their application submission. 

Awardees also had to demonstrate the ability to provide high volume, high quality, and low cost spay and neuter services. Reimbursement payments will be:

Dogs
$300 per spay.
$250 per neuter.
Cats
$200 per spay.
$125 per neuter.

The program is designed to maximize sterilization impacts across both urban and rural communities in Texas. Receiving funding were animal shelters and rescue entities, veterinary clinics, governmental agencies, and non-profit organizations that perform sterilization procedures. 

You can see a list of contractors and the areas they serve and a county map of Texas highlighted by TxSNP coverage areas.

Eligible animal populations for these low-cost sterilizations include dogs and cats owned or in the custody of Texas residents and those cared for by rescue organizations, shelters, and government entities, including animal control departments. 

In addition to reducing health risks to humans, spay and neuter procedures in dogs and cats may reduce cancer and other disease risks for these animals. Research has also shown that cats and dogs that are spayed and neutered live longer on average. 

You can read more about the program on the TxSNP website. DSHS also funds the Texas Animal Friendly Program, which helps communities perform low cost spay and neuter surgeries through the purchase of Animal Friendly custom Texas license plates.

Information source: Texas Department of State Health Services

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