Dallas Animal Services calls on community to adopt and foster as shelter reaches record number of dogs in care

Dallas, Texas – Dallas Animal Services is facing a growing challenge as its dog kennels reach some of the highest levels seen in years, prompting officials to call on the community for immediate help. With hundreds of animals currently in care, the shelter is urging residents to consider adopting or fostering in order to relieve overcrowding and improve conditions for the animals.

At its peak on Sunday, the shelter housed 674 dogs across just 388 kennels, creating a situation where space is stretched thin. Among those animals are 67 nursing puppies still with their mothers, adding another layer of urgency to the situation. Shelter officials say overcrowding not only limits space but also increases the risk of illness spreading among animals.

Community support seen as key to easing overcrowding

Officials emphasized that the solution depends heavily on community involvement. Each adoption or foster placement opens up space for another animal in need, creating a chain reaction that can help stabilize the situation.

“Our team is doing everything we can to manage the number of dogs in our care, but we can’t create space without the community. Every adoption or foster placement makes an immediate difference—not just for that dog, but for the next one who needs our help,” said Victoria Chittam Bennett, Assistant Director.

Adopting or fostering is being presented as a direct and meaningful way for residents to step in and make an impact. By taking a dog into a home, even temporarily, residents can help reduce overcrowding and give animals a better chance at recovery and placement.

Those interested in adopting can view available dogs on the Dallas Animal Services website at bedallas90.org. Residents can also visit the shelter in person at 1818 N. Westmoreland Road during regular business hours, which include weekdays and weekends with varying hours.

For individuals who may not be ready for a permanent adoption, fostering remains an important option. The program allows residents to care for dogs temporarily, helping them adjust outside of the shelter environment while freeing up kennel space. Those interested can reach out via email to learn more about the process.

Dallas Animal Services, one of the largest municipal shelters in the country, continues to focus on finding positive outcomes for animals through adoption, fostering, and community engagement. Officials say the current situation highlights the importance of public involvement, especially during periods when intake numbers rise.

With the community’s help, officials hope to reduce overcrowding, protect animal health, and ensure more dogs find safe and stable homes.