Journeys of Joy
Operation Pets Alive! (OPA) pioneered the use of transport more than 10 years ago as a life-saving way to move Texas shelter animals to shelters and rescues in other areas of the country. By transporting them to regions with higher capacity and a strong desire to adopt, we help these deserving animals find their forever homes.
Today, we are proud to call this program Journeys of Joy.
It takes a village to send these pets on their way, and we are always looking for passionate volunteers to help us get them ready for their big trip! Volunteer opportunities include helping animals get vetted for health certificates, capturing their personalities through photography, and helping load the pets the day of their journey.
Pets transported to no-kill communities in other states through our Journeys of Joy transport program this year*:
Cats
Dogs
Here's how you can help:
Foster a Journeys of Joy Pet
Fostering one of our transport candidates is a short-term, highly rewarding experience! These pets usually require just a two- to four-week time commitment before they head off to their new lives. OPA provides all the necessary supplies, we just need you to provide a loving temporary home!
Shuttle Pets to Vetting
Every pet must receive the proper health clearances to get their “ticket” for transport. Whether you are currently fostering or just want to help another foster parent out, we need volunteer drivers to ensure these pets make it to their vetting appointments and health certificate clinics on time.
Help on Transport Day
It’s all hands on deck when it’s time to travel! We need volunteers for last-minute vetting checks, taking photos for our website and social media, getting pets safely to the loading site, and helping organize and load the animals for their journey.
* Transport numbers are updated monthly.
Last update: May 2026
Last update: May 2026