Main shelter campuses to pause operations once a week
Published on January 28, 2024
Starting Tuesday, Feb. 6, the City of Fort Worth will implement "Pause for Paws," a rotating, once-per-week non-operational day for its main campus locations.
The Chuck and Brenda Silcox Animal Adoption and Care Center will observe this on Tuesdays, and the North Animal Shelter on Wednesdays.
During the "pause" at each campus, all stray or owner surrenders will be redirected to the operational campus. Adoptions and lost pet reclamation will always be available at the operational campus, ensuring uninterrupted services for the community.
Additionally, each campus will also provide pet reclaims if the animal is confirmed to be in the facility. Adoptions by appointment only will also be available, as long as a guest is interested in a specific animal.
Rescue and foster activities will also still be conducted on non-operational days.
Hours of operation and available services at the City’s two PetSmart Everyday Adoption Centers and field services will remain unchanged throughout the schedule adjustment.
“This intentional break aims to allocate more time for attentive care toward our pets and facilities,” said Shelter Superintendent Anastasia Ramsey. “Simultaneously, it provides an increased number of training opportunities for our staff, enabling them to better assess our animals and chart their optimal journey toward loving forever homes.”
The once-a-week pauses will also enable deep cleaning and increased disinfection of the facilities. The goal is to significantly reduce disease transmission while offering brighter, tidier, more welcoming spaces for visitors, staff and the animals in their care.
“At Fort Worth Animal Care & Control, our passion revolves around pets and people,” Ramsey said. “This weekly one-day pause in services at our two main shelter locations reinforces our commitment to the well-being of the pets in our care.”
View the video for an up-close-and-personal look at Pause for Paws:
Download the "Pause for Paws" infographic(PDF, 1MB)
For additional information, visit the Fort Worth Animal Care & Control webpage.