May 26th - June 2nd | The Ones Waiting

Hello FWACC Volunteers,

Some animals wait loudly.

They bark at the front of the kennel. They jump for attention. They make sure they’re seen.

Others wait quietly.

The cat curled up in the back of the kennel hoping someone notices them.
The dog who finally relaxes after one afternoon outside the shelter.
The transport dog who only needs a ride to make it to their next chance.
The shelter pet who simply needs enrichment, structure, and human connection to make it through another stressful day.

As we move into June and one of the busiest times of year for animal shelters, the small things matter more than ever. A walk. A car ride. A photo update. A few minutes spent socializing a shy cat. One volunteer choosing to show up.

This week, we’re highlighting some of the biggest ways volunteers can directly impact shelter pets right now.

Sometimes a few hours outside the shelter can completely change a dog’s demeanor.

Doggy Day Out gives dogs the opportunity to decompress, rest, explore new environments, and simply exist outside of kennel stress. These outings also help us learn more about each dog while helping them gain visibility for adoption.

Many dogs return from outings calmer, more social, and easier to advocate for because of the information volunteers provide.

Doggy Day Out <-- Click for More Information

Cats are often the quietest animals in the shelter, which also means they can become the most overlooked.

The Cat Pack is a dedicated volunteer focus group centered around feline enrichment, socialization, updated photos, and helping shy or stressed cats feel more comfortable in the shelter environment.

Consistent interaction matters. For many cats, it can be the difference between shutting down and beginning to trust.

Cat Caretaker <-- Click for More Information

Not every lifesaving role happens inside the shelter.

We are currently looking for volunteers interested in assisting with pet transport to local veterinary appointments, rescue partners, and approved placement destinations.

Sometimes the only thing standing between an animal and their next opportunity is transportation.

If interested in becoming a transport volunteer, email:
fwaccvolunteers@fortworthtexas.gov

Enrichment is one of the most important tools we have inside the shelter.

Mental stimulation, walks, playgroups, quiet socialization, scent work, puzzle feeders, and positive interaction all help reduce stress and improve quality of life for shelter animals.

As intake numbers continue to rise heading into summer, enrichment becomes even more critical in helping animals cope with long shelter stays.

Enrichment Prep & Clean Up Crew <-- Click for More Information

June is packed with upcoming adoption events and volunteer opportunities, and we would love to have you involved.

Events help animals get seen, help the community connect with the shelter, and give volunteers another opportunity to directly impact placement outcomes.

Check out our upcoming events page below for June opportunities and sign ups.

Upcoming Events & Sign-Ups <-- Click for More Information

Thank you for continuing to show up for the animals who need people the most.

Not every impact is loud or immediately visible. Sometimes it’s a stressed dog finally sleeping after a day out. Sometimes it’s a cat learning people can be trusted again. Sometimes it’s simply making sure an animal gets where they need to go.

Those moments matter.

And they happen because volunteers choose to care.

FWACC Volunteer Team