Dallas Animal Services (DAS) is closing in on an impressive goal for January: reaching a 90% live release rate for cats and dogs housed within its facility. According to Dallas City, the initiative, BeDallas90, reflects a momentous occasion that the shelter hasn't seen since October 2020. With a reported 91% live release rate so far at the start of the new year, it seems that the efforts of the dedicated staff and community are paying off.
Despite the positive trend in live release rates, DAS remains overburdened, currently operating at 130% capacity. This strain is exacerbated by ongoing flooring repairs, which render 24 kennels unusable. According to the latest update, 400 dogs are currently sharing 283 kennels. Nevertheless, the overall live release rate for the fiscal year, which began on October 1, is an encouraging 87.5%.
In a Dallas City press release, Mary Martin, Assistant Director of DAS, emphasized the collective effort involved in pursuing their goal: "Our staff, volunteers and advocates have been working tirelessly to save lives. While we may not yet be at the point where sustaining a 90% live release rate consistently month-to-month is possible, it would truly be a huge morale boost to achieve this milestone for the month of January." Similarly, DAS Director Paul Ramon highlighted the invaluable community support, crediting partnerships and local residents as pivotal to their progress.
As they surge towards their goal, the shelter cites an urgent need for temporary fosters, which can significantly improve an individual animal's chances of adoption. "Housing an adult dog for a week or more can greatly improve the pet’s chances for adoption and opens up a kennel for the 50 – 75 dogs that arrive daily at DAS," as per a Dallas City press release.
