Austin, January 23, 2026
Austin Pets Alive! is calling for short-term foster homes for 75 dogs as the community rallies to support the organization during an impending winter storm. The swift response from local residents has significantly reduced the number of animals awaiting adoption, showcasing the compassion of the Austin community. APA! is urging interested individuals to foster dogs for safety during the severe weather conditions, as they continue to accept donations of necessary supplies.
Austin Pets Alive! Experiences Overwhelming Community Support Amid Winter Storm Warning
Austin, Texas – In the face of an impending winter storm, Austin Pets Alive! (APA!) has seen an outpouring of community support, allowing for a significant reduction in the number of animals awaiting homes. As of January 21, 2026, APA! is calling for short-term foster homes for 75 dogs to ensure their safety during the severe weather conditions.
Community’s Swift Response
The residents of Austin have exhibited remarkable kindness by fostering and adopting numerous animals, which has effectively cleared out APA!’s shelter facilities. This collective effort is crucial in providing warmth and shelter to pets during the cold front. The ability of local citizens to rally behind such an important cause showcases the resilience and compassion that define the Austin community.
Urgent Call for Foster Homes
Despite the overwhelming support, APA! continues to seek additional short-term foster homes for 75 dogs. Interested community members can visit APA!’s Town Lake Animal Center to meet the animals in need. Adoption centers are open daily from 12–6 PM at two convenient locations:
- Town Lake Animal Center: 1156 W. Cesar Chavez St., Austin
- Tarrytown Adoption Center (Small Dogs & Cattery): 3118 Windsor Rd., Austin
Fostering commitments are ideally requested until Wednesday, January 28, 2026. No prior fostering experience is necessary; APA! will work to match individuals with suitable animals based on their home setup.
Additional Ways to Help
For those who may not be able to foster, APA! greatly appreciates donations of supplies to help support the animals during the winter storm. Needed items include medium, large, or extra-large dog crates, baby gates, long-lasting dog chews, and dog toys. Donations can be dropped off at APA!’s Town Lake Animal Center, located at 1156 W. Cesar Chavez St., Austin, in front of Building C.
Protecting Pets During the Freeze
To safeguard pets during freezing temperatures, APA! advises pet owners to adopt the following precautions:
- Limit Time Outdoors: Keep walks brief and monitor pets for signs of cold stress, such as shivering or seeking warmth.
- Check Your Car Before Driving: Be aware that cats may curl up near car engines; tapping the hood before starting your vehicle can help ensure no pets are hiding underneath.
- Protect Paws: Cold pavement and ice can harm paws; be sure to wipe them clean after walks to remove moisture and chemicals.
- Avoid De-Icers: Many ice-melting products can be toxic to pets; rinse paws immediately if exposed.
- Add Extra Bedding: Providing blankets and elevated bedding can help pets retain heat, particularly overnight.
- Never Leave Pets in Cold Cars: Leaving pets in vehicles during freezing temperatures can pose serious dangers.
If frostbite or hypothermia is suspected—indicated by pale or gray skin on ears and paws—prompt veterinary care should be sought.
About Austin Pets Alive!
Austin Pets Alive! is a nonprofit organization dedicated to pioneering innovative lifesaving programs aimed at saving animals most at risk of euthanasia. Since its founding, APA! has successfully saved over 130,000 lives and continues to be an essential resource for the Austin community.
Contact Information
For more information on fostering, adopting, or donating, please visit APA!’s official website at [www.austinpetsalive.org](https://www.austinpetsalive.org/). To report an animal in need or request assistance, email [email protected].
FAQ
How can I foster a dog during the winter storm?
Community members interested in fostering can visit APA!’s Town Lake Animal Center to meet the animals in need. The adoption centers are open daily from 12–6 PM at the following locations:
- Town Lake Animal Center: 1156 W. Cesar Chavez St., Austin
- Tarrytown Adoption Center (Small Dogs & Cattery): 3118 Windsor Rd., Austin
Fostering commitments are ideally requested until Wednesday, January 28, 2026. No previous fostering experience is required; APA! will match individuals with suitable animals based on their home setup.
What supplies does APA! need during the winter storm?
APA! welcomes donations of supplies to support the animals during the winter storm. Needed items include medium, large, or extra-large dog crates, baby gates, long-lasting dog chews, and dog toys. Donations can be dropped off at APA!’s Town Lake Animal Center, located at 1156 W. Cesar Chavez St., Austin, in front of Building C.
How can I protect my pet during freezing temperatures?
APA! advises pet owners to take the following precautions during freezing temperatures:
- Limit Time Outdoors: Keep walks short and monitor pets for signs of cold stress, such as shivering or seeking warmth.
- Check Your Car Before Driving: Cats may seek warmth near car engines; tap the hood before starting your vehicle to ensure no pets are hiding underneath.
- Protect Paws: Cold pavement and ice can harm paws; wipe them clean after walks to remove moisture and chemicals.
- Avoid De-Icers: Many ice-melting products are toxic to pets; rinse paws immediately if exposed.
- Add Extra Bedding: Provide blankets and elevated bedding to help pets retain heat, especially overnight.
- Never Leave Pets in Cold Cars: Leaving pets in vehicles during freezing temperatures can be deadly.
If you notice signs of frostbite or hypothermia, such as pale or gray skin on ears and paws, seek veterinary care promptly.
Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Austin, Texas |
| Organization | Austin Pets Alive! (APA!) |
| Urgent Need | Short-term foster homes for 75 dogs during winter storm |
| Foster Locations | Town Lake Animal Center and Tarrytown Adoption Center |
| Donation Needs | Medium, large, or extra-large dog crates; baby gates; long-lasting dog chews; dog toys |
| Contact Information | Email: [email protected]; Website: [www.austinpetsalive.org](https://www.austinpetsalive.org/) |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
San Antonio Authorities Issue CLEAR Alert for Missing Teen
Kickstart the Year with a First Day Hike in Cooper Lake State Park
Peppermint Parkway Lights Up Austin This Holiday Season
Community Impacting Stories: From Tragedy to Triumph
Texas State Bobcats Prepare for Bowl Showdown with Rice Owls
Austin’s HUB Program Transforms into VetHUB for Veteran Support
Creative 404 Error Pages Transform User Frustration into Delight
Turning Point USA Event Honors Charlie Kirk Amid Political Turbulence
Texas Longhorns Volleyball Opens Season with Victory over Creighton
Central Texas High School Football Launches Season
Author: STAFF HERE AUSTIN WRITER
The AUSTIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAustinTX.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Austin, Travis County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as SXSW, Austin City Limits Music Festival, Formula 1 United States Grand Prix, and the Austin Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Austin Chamber of Commerce and Visit Austin, plus leading businesses in technology, automotive, and retail that power the local economy such as Dell Technologies, Tesla, and Apple. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
