Dallas Animal Services (DAS) is encouraging residents to help bring pets “Home for the Holidays” by adopting or fostering during a critical period for the shelter. With the holiday season approaching, DAS aims to increase its positive outcomes, having achieved impressive figures of 1,377 adoptions in October and 1,378 in November. The department has set a goal of reaching 1,400 positive outcomes by the end of December, with 588 already completed this month.
“We are grateful for the support our community continues to show,” said Victoria Chittam Bennett, Assistant Director of DAS. “Every adoption opens a kennel for another pet in need, and the holidays are an especially meaningful time to welcome a new companion.”
To incentivize adoptions, participants can take part in the Friends of Dallas Animal Services (FODAS) 12 Days of Holiday Giveaways, fully funded by generous donations. This initiative aims to reward adopters and promote increased engagement with the community. More details can be found on the FODAS website and their social media channels.
Short-Term Fostering Opportunities Available
For those who may not be ready to adopt, DAS offers a program called Silent Night Holiday Staycations. This short-term fostering opportunity allows dogs to enjoy a break from the shelter environment during the holiday season.
Pickup dates for the fostering program are scheduled for December 20-21, 2023, with drop-off options available on December 27-28 or January 3-4. Prospective fosterers typically spend 1-3 hours at the shelter selecting their match, and direct contact with pets outside the home is encouraged to be limited.
“Holiday Staycations allow our dogs to decompress and show their personalities in a home environment,” said Amanda Earl, Assistant Director at DAS. “The insight we receive from these foster stays is invaluable in helping pets find permanent homes.”
DAS is calling on the community to adopt, foster, volunteer, or share information about adoptable pets to meet December’s lifesaving goals. “Together, we can bring home the holidays for the pets relying on us,” stated Paul Ramon, Director of DAS.
For more information on adoptable pets, holiday programs, or ways to get involved, visit the DAS website or stop by the shelter located at 1818 N. Westmoreland Rd. This holiday season, your involvement could make a significant difference in the lives of many animals awaiting loving homes.
