Mid City Times

Fort Worth's main animal shelter campuses are introducing a new initiative called "Pause for Paws." This once-per-week non-operational day is aimed at providing more attentive care towards pets and facilities, while furthering the shelter's mission of leading with care and compassion.

Starting on Tuesday, February 6, the City of Fort Worth will implement a rotating schedule for its main campus locations. The Chuck and Brenda Silcox Animal Adoption and Care Center will observe the pause on Tuesdays, while the North Animal Shelter will do so on Wednesdays.

During the pause at each campus, all stray or owner surrenders will be redirected to the operational campus. However, adoptions and lost pet reclamation will continue to be available at the operational campus, ensuring uninterrupted services for the community. Shelter Superintendent Anastasia Ramsey explains, "This intentional break aims to allocate more time for attentive care toward our pets and facilities."

In addition to redirecting services, 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 for guests interested in a specific animal. Rescue and foster activities will continue to be conducted on non-operational days as well.

The once-a-week pauses will also allow for deep cleaning and increased disinfection of the facilities. The goal is to significantly reduce disease transmission while creating brighter, tidier, and more welcoming spaces for visitors, staff, and the animals in their care.

Ramsey emphasizes the importance of this initiative, stating, "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."

The implementation of "Pause for Paws" reflects the shelter's dedication to providing the best possible care for animals in need. By allocating more time for attentive care, staff will have increased training opportunities to better assess and prepare animals for their journey towards loving forever homes.

This schedule adjustment will not affect the hours of operation and available services at the City's two PetSmart Everyday Adoption Centers and field services.

For more information about "Pause for Paws" and other initiatives by the Fort Worth Animal Care & Control, visit their webpage.