At Dallas Pets Alive (DPA), our commitment to ensuring the welfare of pets and pet owners in the Dallas community has always been at the forefront of our mission. We are thrilled to share some news in our ongoing efforts — the integration of Dogs Matter into our organization! This partnership will expand the important work we do in our Positive Alternatives to Shelter Surrender (PASS) program by incorporating Dogs Matter’s mission of providing safe and healthy environments for dogs of recovering addicts and alcoholics into our program. Joining us as a new department of DPA, Dogs Matter helps place dogs with temporary foster homes while their owners are away seeking in-patient treatment and getting the help they need.
We are excited to have Dogs Matter enter our organization, allowing us to make a giant leap forward in our mission to continue creating a lasting, positive impact in the lives of those who need it most.
The PASS Program: A Lifeline to Pet Owners in Need
DPA’s Positive Alternatives to Shelter Surrender (PASS) program was launched in 2016 with the aim of providing compassionate solutions for those facing difficulties in times of crisis. In these challenging times, pet owners might find themselves with no other choice but to relinquish their beloved pets to shelters, due to a lack of resources or finances to provide the care that their pets need. PASS has been instrumental in preventing this heartbreaking scenario. To date, our program has assisted 16,509 pet owners and saved the lives of 2,679 animals who would have otherwise been surrendered to local shelters.
PASS is a unique initiative, the only one of its kind in North Texas. We work in partnership with a number of local shelters and organizations to extend a helping hand to pet owners in need, offering resources such as:
- Donated food and pet supplies
- Veterinary care
- Temporary foster homes
Our dedicated volunteers connect pet owners with these life-saving resources, ensuring that more pets stay out of the shelters and in their homes with their loving families.
Dogs Matter: A Vital Addition
Dogs Matter specializes in providing temporary foster homes for dogs whose owners are undergoing in-patient substance abuse treatment and embarking on a road to recovery. The collaboration of DPA and Dogs Matter amplifies our ability to support more pet owners within our community, ensuring that they won’t lose their beloved dogs while they focus on their own healing journey. The ultimate goal is to reunite individuals with their dogs after successfully completing their treatment plans and entering recovery, allowing them to resume the responsibility of pet ownership when the time is right.
After dogs and their owners reunite, Dogs Matter is also there to lend a helping hand with their 12-month Aftercare Program. Led by a certified peer recovery coach, the program provides assistance through regular check-in calls and visits. They also provide access to additional resources to help ensure that recovering individuals have a safe and secure environment for them and their pups as they navigate the transition to a healthy post-treatment lifestyle while staying clean and sober.
A Heartwarming Journey: Zuzu’s Story
Zuzu’s story truly exemplifies the positive impact of the PASS program and the integration of Dogs Matter. When her owner needed to enter treatment and focus on getting well, faithful canine companion Zuzu was placed in the safety of a temporary foster home with the help of DPA and Dogs Matter. Not only did this provide comfort and relief to the pet owner, making it possible for them to focus on their recovery, but it also ensured that Zuzu was well cared for during their separation.
In September, Zuzu and her owner had a mini reunion, a joyful moment that served as a great source of hope and motivation for the owner to continue their path to recovery. After spending a total of 105 days in temporary foster care with DPA and Dogs Matter, Zuzu is gearing up for the full reunion with her owner later this month.
This inspiring story highlights the transformative power of our PASS program and the mission of Dogs Matter. Together, we can advocate for more individuals in their time of need, while providing a safe haven for their pets until they can be reunited.
Be a Part of the Change
The integration of Dogs Matter into Dallas Pets Alive strengthens our commitment to the community, ensuring that pets and pet owners alike receive the love and support they need during challenging times. Together, we will continue to create a brighter future for pets and their loving families.
We want you to be a part of this positive movement within our community! Your support will help ensure that more heartwarming reunions like Zuzu’s will come to pass, making a significant difference in the lives of both pets and their owners across the Dallas-Fort Worth community and beyond.
Join us by signing up to volunteer as a foster for Dallas Pets Alive and Dogs Matter today!
