Officials say every animal placed in a foster home frees up space for another pet in need while giving that animal a better chance to thrive. “We know that even a few weeks in a home can completely change an animal’s future,” Austin Animal Services Director Monica Dangler said. Austin Animal Services encourages residents to foster a dog for at least a weekend, though officials say placements of two weeks or longer provide the greatest benefit. Austin Animal Services currently cares for more than 1,100 animals. Those interested in fostering or adopting can visit Austin Animal Services at 7201 Levander Loop any day of the week from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. More information is available at the city’s Animal Services website.