Winter weather leaves Dallas Animal Services overflowing, in need of fosters and adopters

This week’s wintery weather has led to a large increase in emergency, cold-weather animal calls and Dallas Animal Services (DAS) is running out of kennels to house the dogs arriving in need of warm shelter.

“The ice and snow couldn’t have come at a worse time,” said DAS Director MeLissa Webber. “It really has created the perfect storm at DAS. We are currently at capacity for medium and large dogs. We have close to 400 pets at our shelter, and we expect to take in dozens more in the coming days. Without additional support from our community, we’re going to be faced with some very difficult euthanasia decisions, which we all desperately want to avoid.”

Webber said the public should consider fostering or adopting a pet. “We have so many wonderful dogs who would love to provide extra warmth to your family. Taking them home even for a few days will literally save their lives. They are depending on the compassion of our community.”

Adoptions can be completed remotely with curbside pet pickup once it is safe to drive or in-person at one of DAS’ two locations. Our main shelter is located at 1818 North Westmoreland Road and houses the most animals. There are also pets available at the PetSmart Everyday Adoption Center, located at 16821 North Coit Road. Same day fostering is also available through the Westmoreland location. For hours, available pets, or additional information on adoption or fostering, please visit BeDallas90.org.

To report a pet outside in freezing temperatures without adequate shelter or fresh, unfrozen water for a prolonged period, call 311 or make a service request through the OurDallas mobile app. “As the temperature continues to drop, prevention is key,” said Webber. “Bring your pets inside or make sure they have warm shelter from the wind and weather so that they stay safe and don’t end up at DAS.” Animal Services Officers are responding to these high priority calls around the clock. For more information on winter pet safety, visit BeDallas90.org.

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