Fourteen animals from Fort Worth Animal Care & Control (FWACC) took flight to their new homes on Valentine’s Day, marking a fresh start for 11 dogs and three cats. The transport was made possible through a partnership with Wings of Rescue, a volunteer group that relocates at-risk pets.
“I feel pure happiness for the animals on this flight,” said Melanie Pena, FWACC’s outbound supervisor. Many of the pets are expected to be adopted within days of arriving at their destination.
Each animal spent at least two weeks in a foster home before becoming eligible for the transport. “We’re hoping to get new fosters and want to help them understand just how much fostering truly helps save lives,” Pena added.
While this group traveled by plane from Meacham International Airport, FWACC has already sent dozens of animals to new homes via transport buses this year.
For longtime foster volunteer Katie Tyrrell, the sendoff was bittersweet. “It’s always hard to say goodbye,” she said, watching the animals board the plane. Tyrrell, who has fostered more than 60 dogs in two years, described the experience as rewarding. “It’s amazing to know they’re never going to come back to the shelter and never going to end up on the streets as strays.”
FWACC continues to encourage fostering, offering support to those interested in providing temporary care for animals in need. “We want people to ask us as many questions as they want to feel more comfortable with the fostering process,” Pena said.
