By Jennifer Tran

The Humane Society of the United States announced the results of a comparison of the largest cities in the U.S. Using the humane index, the first of its kind, they ranked the nation’s largest 25 metropolitan areas on the humane treatment of animals.

How did Houston rank? Houston was ranked 22nd in the selection of America’s Most Humane Cities. San Francisco topped the list, followed by Seattle, Portland, Washington and San Diego.

The index is comprised of many factors selected to compare the relative humaneness of the largest metro areas. It includes pet-related topics, farm animals, wildlife, animals in entertainment and animal advocacy.

How humane is Houston? The index revealed a few positive aspects of how animals are treated in the metro Houston area. For instance, when it comes to fashion, Houstonians realize that animals need their fur more than we do and ranked second best in the country with only seven fur retailers. Houston can also be proud that its home to 58 wildlife rehabilitators, ranking third across the nation.

How can Houston improve? Adopt a pet from an animal shelter. The index revealed that more than half of Houston’s pet stores sell puppies. Let your voice be heard. Houston also hit rock bottom on the list for the number of citizen advocates for animal issues and near the bottom (24th) for political support on these issues. For those of you who believe in animal protection, you need to speak loudly to have your voice heard by our elected officials.

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