Animal shelter’s ‘freedom ride’ hits major milestone

On September 20, 2024, the Fort Worth Animal Care & Control (FWACC) celebrated a significant milestone as 27 dogs embarked on a journey to new homes in New England, facilitated by its Transport Program. This initiative, which partners with rescue groups across the country, aims to alleviate pet overpopulation issues in Texas by relocating animals to areas with greater adoption opportunities. With this latest transport, the program has successfully saved 1,053 dogs in FY2024, far exceeding its initial goal of 800 and marking the highest number since 2020. Transport Program Manager Nia Hernandez expressed her pride in the team's accomplishments, attributing the success to the collective efforts of shelter staff, volunteers, and transport partners who have worked tirelessly throughout the year. The dogs included a diverse mix of breeds, and six were on the Urgent Pet Placement list, underscoring the program's commitment to saving those most at risk.

The next transport is set for October 3, and FWACC is actively looking for transport fosters to continue this vital work. Hernandez emphasized the importance of community support, stating, “It’s an amazing feeling knowing that the team was up for the challenge and never gave up. ” This successful transport not only reflects the program's effectiveness but also highlights the collective effort to improve the lives of shelter animals.