On June 5, Dallas Animal Services will debut a monthly after-hours event series called First Fridays, aimed at connecting shelter pets with potential adopters while opening the facility to the broader community.<\/p>\n
The inaugural event will run from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and will also serve as the launch of the Paws and Play Summer Kickoff Weekend, a three-day celebration scheduled for June 5-7, according to information<\/a> from\u00a0the City of Dallas.<\/p>\n The series is being supported by the Louis B. and Mary Ratliff Animal Welfare Fund at The Dallas Foundation through a grant to Friends of Dallas Animal Services.<\/p>\n Organizers said the goal is to reshape the shelter environment into a welcoming community gathering, allowing residents to stop by after work to meet animals available for adoption.<\/p>\n The June 5 kickoff will include free hot dogs while supplies last, live music by Nova Pangea, complimentary treats, interactive activities, and extended hours for visitors to meet and adopt shelter pets.<\/p>\n \u201cWe\u2019re always looking for new ways to help pets connect with potential adopters,\u201d said Wendy Reiner, co-founder of Friends of Dallas Animal Services. \u201cFirst Fridays allows the community to visit the shelter after work hours, spend time with our animals, and hopefully find their new best friend.\u201d<\/p>\n Dallas Animal Services is encouraging residents to participate through adoption, fostering, or volunteering. Visitors can meet dogs and cats ready for homes, learn how to provide temporary care for shelter animals, or find out how to support shelter operations through volunteer work.<\/p>\n Event Details<\/p>\n What: First Fridays Launch and Paws and Play Summer Kickoff Weekend<\/p>\n When: Friday, June 5, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. The Summer Kickoff Weekend continues June 6-7.<\/p>\n