It started as a day full of excitement and anticipation but ended in heartbreak. We were merely four hours away from adopting a kitten from our local Austin Animal Center when we received a devastating phone call. Our adoption was cancelled unexpectedly and abruptly, with little to no information provided about the kitten's condition or the next steps.

We, like many families, had already created a bond with our soon-to-be pet. We deserved to know what had happened, what would happen, and most importantly, we deserved to be there for our kitten in her time of need. Yet, we were pushed aside and suggested to adopt another pet instead. We do not believe that this practice shows respect to the relationships that develop between animals and potential adoptees.

The Austin Animal Center's current policy obstructs families from fostering animals which are placed on medical hold, even if those families were previously scheduled to adopt them. This policy limits the connection between the animals and families and fails to recognize the emotional attachment that builds during the adoption process.

We call for a change in policy at Austin Animal Center which allows families to foster their adoptive pets during medical holds. We also seek a policy granting families access to their pet’s condition and updates.

The emotional bond between families and their soon-to-be pets is invaluable and should be nurtured, rather than severed. Please help us and countless others by signing this petition and ensuring families like ours can remain connected to the pets they fall in love with.

I am registered to speak March 10th at the Animal Advisory Commission meeting, in order to show the impact of this policy and provide alternative options that would benefits the animals and families of Austin, Texas. Your signature will assist in showing community support when we speak to our local officials.