Dallas Animal Services announced on May 26 the launch of First Fridays, a new monthly community adoption event series designed to connect residents with pets in need of homes.
The initiative is supported by a grant from the Louis B. and Mary Ratliff Animal Welfare Fund at The Dallas Foundation to Friends of Dallas Animal Services, which provides financial support to the shelter. The city will extend shelter hours and offer family-friendly experiences as part of its efforts to increase pet adoptions.
The first First Fridays event will take place from 5 to 8 p.m. on June 5, serving as the kickoff for DAS’s Paws and Play Summer Kickoff Weekend, a three-day celebration running June 5–7. The weekend aims to introduce more residents to available services and programs at the shelter. Attendees can expect live music from Nova Pangea, treats, interactive activities, and opportunities to meet adoptable pets.
“We’re always looking for new ways to help pets connect with potential adopters,” said Wendy Reiner, co-founder of Friends of Dallas Animal Services. “First Fridays allows the community to visit the shelter after work hours, spend time with our animals, and hopefully find their new best friend.”
According to Dallas Animal Services, this monthly series is part of ongoing efforts encouraging community involvement through adoption, fostering, and volunteering. Residents are encouraged to attend with friends or family members and help give shelter pets a second chance.
Dallas Animal Services describes itself as one of the largest municipal animal shelters in the country, committed to promoting public safety while finding positive outcomes for all healthy and treatable animals in its care.
