Saturday, May 7, the University of Houston‑Downtown (UHD) Animal Rescue Club and Houston Pets Alive will co-host the first Houston Animal Welfare Conference at the UHD Willow Street Pump Station, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Houston Astros pitcher Lance McCullers Jr., will serve as keynote speaker. Other nationally-known experts from California and Texas will lead discussions on the most successful means to improve animal rescue efforts, and promote a "no kill" philosophy in Houston.

Additionally, attendees will hear notable speakers discuss Houston's animal welfare movement, get advice on emergency animal first aid and participate in networking sessions.

Aaron Gillette, adviser of the UHD Animal Welfare Club said, "We hope that this conference can become a landmark event in the history of animal rescue in Houston."

For more information and to register for the conference, visit Houston Pets Alive, or contact Aaron Gillette at 713-222-5381. Registration is free for UHD students, faculty and staff.