Dallas Animal Services (DAS) is urging residents of Dallas to open their homes to pets during the holiday season through its “Home for the Holidays” initiative. This program allows community members to either adopt or foster animals from the shelter, which experiences a significant increase in activity during this time of year.
DAS has reported impressive results in recent months, achieving 1,377 positive outcomes in October and 1,378 in November. As the department sets its sights on a goal of 1,400 positive outcomes for December, it has already recorded 588 outcomes so far this month. These numbers reflect the community’s dedication to animal welfare, according to Victoria Chittam Bennett, the Assistant Director of DAS. She stated, “Every adoption opens a kennel for another pet in need, and the holidays are an especially meaningful time to welcome a new companion.”
This year, adopters will also have the opportunity to participate in the Friends of Dallas Animal Services (FODAS) 12 Days of Holiday Giveaways. This initiative is fully funded by donations from local supporters and aims to enhance the adoption experience. For additional details, visit friendsofdas.org or follow their social media channels for updates.
Short-Term Fostering Opportunities Available
For those who may not be ready to adopt a pet, DAS is offering a unique opportunity called the Silent Night Holiday Staycations. This program allows residents to provide temporary foster care for dogs, giving them a much-needed break from the shelter environment.
Fostering periods are scheduled for December 20-21, with return dates on December 27-28 or January 3-4. Participants typically spend 1-3 hours at the shelter selecting a dog to foster, and they are advised to limit contact with pets outside the home during this time. For inquiries, potential foster caregivers can reach out via email at [email protected].
According to Amanda Earl, also an Assistant Director at DAS, “Holiday Staycations allow our dogs to decompress and show their personalities in a home environment. The insight we receive from these foster stays is invaluable in helping pets find permanent homes.”
Community Engagement Encouraged
DAS is calling on the community to consider adopting, fostering, or volunteering to help meet their December goals. Paul Ramon, the Director of DAS, emphasized, “Together, we can bring home the holidays for the pets relying on us.” The shelter is eager to facilitate new connections between pets and potential families during this festive season.
For more information on available pets, details about holiday programs, or ways to get involved, individuals can visit https://bedallas90.org/ or visit the DAS Shelter at 1818 N. Westmoreland Rd. The call for community support comes at a crucial time, as the shelter aims to ensure that as many pets as possible find loving homes during the holidays.
