Dallas Animal Services has partnered with the BISSELL Pet Foundation for its “Empty the Shelters” event, offering free pet adoptions through December 17.
The “Empty the Shelters” event, the largest of its kind in the country, has helped more than 300,000 pets find forever homes nationwide. Dallas Animal Services hopes to continue that success by matching even more animals with families in the DFW area.
According to a recent press release from the City, Dallas is in dire need of dog adoptions. Dallas Animal Services (DAS) reports that it is currently at 133 percent capacity for dogs.
As previously reported by The Dallas Express, the shelter receives between 50 and 100 new animals each day. So far this year, according to Mary Martin, assistant director at DAS, they have seen a rise of 1,200 more owner-surrenders and 3,000 additional stray animals compared to 2023.
“It has been an incredibly challenging year for saving lives as our nation’s shelters continue to take in more pets than they are adopting out. Tens of thousands of shelter pets, of all breeds, ages, and personalities, are desperately in need of homes,” Cathy Bissell, founder of The BISSELL Pet Foundation, said in the press release.
The shelter is also undergoing repairs during this holiday season, and clearing up any additional space with adoptions would help ensure that DAS could sustain the comfort and safety of animals still waiting for a home.
According to DAS, all adoptions include spaying or neutering, age-appropriate vaccinations, microchipping, and an engraved ID tag, all at no cost. DAS is also open to out-of-state adoptions, making it easier for anyone outside the immediate Dallas area to help a good cause.
“These animals are eager to become cherished members of a family…Additionally, if you can open your heart and home as a foster through the holiday season, your support would mean the world to us and them. Together, we can make a lasting difference,” Paul Ramon, Director of DAS, added.
For readers ready to help a pet in need and help lower capacity levels for DAS, visit BeDallas90.org to view all available animals still awaiting a forever home.