DALLAS, TX (October 2026) – Dallas Pets Alive (DPA) is expanding its commitment to keeping pets out of shelters and in homes through the integration of the Pet Support Resource Center (PSRC) into its Positive Alternatives to Shelter Surrender (PASS) program. Previously operated by Spay Neuter Network, the PSRC coordinates owner surrender appointments for Dallas Animal Services and Fort Worth Animal Care and Control. Under DPA’s leadership, the program will place an increased emphasis on preventing unnecessary surrenders by connecting pet owners with resources, guidance, and support before they make the difficult decision to give up their pet.
For many North Texas families, surrendering a beloved pet is not a choice they want to make. Typically it is driven by financial hardship, housing instability, veterinary expenses, or other unexpected life circumstances. Through this transition, DPA is strengthening the support available to families at these critical moments, helping address the challenges that might otherwise lead to a pet entering an already overcrowded shelter system.
The PSRC will operate as part of DPA’s established PASS program, which works to prevent owner surrenders by providing pet owners with access to resources such as veterinary assistance, pet food, behavioral support, and other community services.
A dedicated team of two full-time employees work directly with pet owners to understand their individual circumstances, explore available solutions, and identify opportunities to keep pets safely with their families. When surrender is unavoidable, the team helps coordinate appointments with the appropriate municipal animal services agency, supporting a more organized and compassionate process for families and shelters.
“Integrating the Pet Support Resource Center into the PASS program is an exciting step forward for animal welfare in the DFW area. Through PASS, we can connect pet owners facing difficult circumstances with resources and alternatives to surrender, helping keep pets with the families who love them whenever possible. This partnership creates an even greater opportunity to meet our community’s needs, provide support where it matters most, and help more families and their pets stay together.” said Gillian Robles, DPA PASS Director.
By incorporating the PSRC into its existing services, Dallas Pets Alive can reach more pet owners at the moment they are considering surrender. The expanded program also supports the efforts of Dallas Animal Services and Fort Worth Animal Care and Control by helping reduce preventable intake and allowing shelter resources to be directed toward animals most in need.
About Dallas Pets Alive
Since 2012, Dallas Pets Alive has been dedicated to creating a North Texas where every pet has the opportunity to live a safe, healthy, and loved life. Through innovative rescue, foster, adoption, and pet retention programs, DPA works to save the lives of pets most at risk of euthanasia while helping families overcome the challenges that can lead to pet surrender. Learn more at www.dallaspetsalive.org.
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