Dallas Animal Services (DAS) has launched a heartwarming initiative encouraging the community to help bring pets “Home for the Holidays.” As the shelter approaches one of its busiest periods, residents are invited to adopt or foster pets, contributing to the ongoing efforts to find loving homes for animals in need.
In recent months, DAS has reported significant success in its adoption and foster programs, achieving a total of 1,377 positive outcomes in October and 1,378 in November. The shelter aims to reach a goal of 1,400 successful placements in December, with 588 completed as of early this month.
Victoria Chittam Bennett, Assistant Director of DAS, expressed gratitude for the community’s support. “Every adoption opens a kennel for another pet in need, and the holidays are an especially meaningful time to welcome a new companion,” she said.
Holiday Programs and Events
This season, adopters will also have the opportunity to participate in the Friends of Dallas Animal Services (FODAS) 12 Days of Holiday Giveaways. This event, fully funded by generous community donations, aims to enhance the holiday spirit while supporting local pets. More information about this initiative can be found at friendsofdas.org, along with announcements on their social media platforms.
For those who may not be ready to adopt a pet permanently, DAS offers a unique short-term foster opportunity called Silent Night Holiday Staycations. This program allows residents to provide dogs with a break from the shelter environment during the holiday season.
Pickup dates for participants are scheduled for December 20-21, 2023, with drop-off options available on December 27-28 or January 3-4. Participants will typically spend 1-3 hours at the shelter selecting a foster dog, while limiting contact with pets outside the home during the stay.
Amanda Earl, Assistant Director, highlighted the importance of these temporary homes. “Holiday Staycations allow our dogs to decompress and show their personalities in a home environment,” she stated. “The insight we receive from these foster stays is invaluable in helping pets find permanent homes.”
Community Engagement and Support
DAS is actively encouraging the community to engage in various ways, including adoption, fostering, volunteering, and sharing information about adoptable pets. Paul Ramon, Director of DAS, emphasized the collective responsibility, stating, “Together, we can bring home the holidays for the pets relying on us.”
For those interested in adopting a pet or learning more about holiday programs, the public is invited to visit the DAS website at https://bedallas90.org/ or stop by the DAS Shelter located at 1818 N. Westmoreland Rd.
As the holiday season approaches, Dallas Animal Services remains committed to finding loving homes for pets and appreciates the community’s ongoing support in meeting these lifesaving goals.
