AUSTIN (KXAN) -- Saturday, Austin FC will kick off its first home match of the season. Thousands of fans are expected to fill the seats at the Q2 Stadium, and they will have the chance to meet the Verde's first honorary mascot, Bastian from Austin Pets Alive!
Bastian is a 7-year-old mixed-breed medium-sized dog who loves to play and receive lots of affection. APA! said he's "perfectly mannered," doesn't need a crate, and has never had an accident. He is ready to be adopted, and those interested can view his full bio online.
APA! also has a list of other adoption-ready pets on its website.
Instead of a traditional mascot at its matches, Austin FC partners with APA! to bring an adoptable dog to the matches as the "Mascot of the Match."
For the 2024 season, Texas Lottery is joining the partnership to help amplify APA!’s efforts to save the lives of pets, according to Austin FC's website.
“Thanks to the first three seasons of this partnership, 61 Austin FC Honorary Mascots have been adopted and are now sleeping comfortably in warm homes instead of living in cold kennels at the shelter. We are thrilled that the Texas Lottery has chosen to sponsor this innovative partnership and look forward to even more Austin FC Honorary Mascot adoptions!" Dr. Ellen Jefferson, President and CEO of Austin Pets Alive! said.
