Fort Worth reaches 90% animal live release rate for fiscal year

Fort Worth Animal Care & Control has reached a 90% live release rate (LRR) for its animals, marking a major milestone for the department. Today, the City is officially celebrating the achievement for the 2026 fiscal year to date.

“We are so excited to see more animals saved and to see how the community and FWACC staff are coming together to improve each year,” said Code Compliance Director Brian Daugherty. “These numbers are a testament to the work they’ve all done to improve our city and the lives of people and pets.”

FWACC saw particularly strong monthly performance in recent months. In December 2025, Fort Worth reached a 92.88% live release rate for the overall month. This positive trend continued in February, with a 91.94% LRR. Finally reaching a LRR above 90% for the fiscal year to date is a milestone worth celebrating, as it signifies that nearly all animals who came through the shelter’s doors found permanent, loving homes.

The last time FWACC experienced adoption numbers at a similar level was in 2021 during the pandemic, when many residents sought companionship during a time of isolation. In the years since, as daily life returned to normal, FWACC has continued to work tirelessly to secure positive outcomes for shelter pets.

“Reaching a 90% live release rate shows what’s possible when our community and lifesaving partners come together in a coordinated effort to prioritize compassionate care,” said Assistant Director Christopher McAllister. “It pushes us to keep building on that success to save even more lives.”

This milestone would not be possible without the dedication of FWACC staff. Team members work daily to expand the department’s rescue network, reaching out to partners across the region and beyond. They coordinate with volunteers to provide enrichment opportunities, ensuring animals receive time outside their kennels to play, socialize and decompress.

Staff also deal with the grueling side of shelter operations, maintaining clean and sanitary facilities, tending to each animal’s medical needs and evaluating animal behavior to support safe and successful placements.

Notably, FWACC’s rescue partners have also played a vital role in helping reach a 90% LRR. Transporting animals to areas with higher adoption demand and taking in pets requiring specialized or intensive care is no easy feat. Their commitment to rehabilitation and rehoming is instrumental in increasing positive outcomes.

Since the beginning of the fiscal year, 4,087 animals have been adopted, and 1,013 have found reprieve in foster homes. The Fort Worth community has truly stepped up to create change in animal welfare, and we are grateful to each of you.

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