In a move that celebrates the legacy of a beloved canine, the City of Fort Worth has approved the renaming of its North Animal Campus. According to the City of Fort Worth announcement released yesterday, the shelter will now be called Henry's Animal Campus, commemorating the city's late canine ambassador, Henry.
Henry's story is one of hope and perseverance. After being found afflicted with pneumonia and wandering the streets in 2011, he was taken in by the Chuck & Brenda Silcox Animal Shelter. Brandon Bennett, Henry’s owner and former director of Fort Worth’s Code Compliance Department, shared at a recent council meeting that Henry was nursed back to health by Animal Care & Control. His story resonated with many as not just a tale of recovery, but as an embodiment of the shelter's mission to give animals a second chance.
Henry's selection as the shelter's ambassador had a purpose beyond his endearing personality. As per the City of Fort Worth, Bennett explained that "The hardest dogs for animal control to adopt out are the ones that are large and dark-colored," which made Henry, with his large stature and dark coat, a strategic choice to challenge preconceived notions and promote adoption.
Dedicated to raising awareness about homeless pets, Henry contributed to numerous special events, school visits, and campaigns that ultimately raised over $4.8 million for animal welfare, including a significant sum for a new medical treatment ward. His efforts enriched the lives of countless animals across Fort Worth before he passed away in 2025 at age 16. City leaders look to ensure that Henry's contributions are not forgotten with this act of commemoration.
