Austin Pets Alive! places more than 60 dogs in foster homes ahead of winter storm

January 22, 2026

Austin Pets Alive! moved over 60 dogs into short-term foster placements ahead of a winter storm forecast to impact Central Texas. The organization identified 52 individual dogs, and it also placed a nursing mother with her litter of 11 newborn puppies, into temporary homes.

The animals went to foster households to provide a safer environment than shelter kennels during the severe weather. Newborn puppies require close monitoring and steady warmth, so the mother and her litter were prioritized for home care through the storm period.

Shelter staff coordinated the placements to make sure each animal had appropriate supervision and resources while in foster care. Short-term fostering allowed the organization to reduce the number of animals on site, easing logistical and safety concerns a storm can create for shelters.

Volunteers and foster caregivers prepared to care for the dogs through the duration of the weather event, providing food, bedding, and basic medical attention as needed. Austin Pets Alive! said these steps help protect the animals and support smooth operations at their facilities during emergency weather conditions.

Officials with the organization emphasized that short-term foster plans are part of their broader emergency response strategy for extreme weather. By placing vulnerable animals in homes temporarily, the group aims to minimize stress and health risks while the storm affects the region.

Community members interested in fostering or offering assistance can contact the shelter for current needs and guidelines. Shelter staff continue to monitor the storm and review care plans to ensure animals remain safe until they can return to regular shelter operations or move to adoptive placements.