Riverside County supervisors are sending a clear message to municipalities that contract with the Department of Animal Services: it’s time to find solutions to their stray pet overpopulation problems instead of relying solely on the county. Supervisor Kevin Jeffries expressed frustration with cities that continually turn to the county for help, leading to negative publicity, particularly regarding euthanasia rates.
During a recent meeting to adjust contract rates for cities like Desert Hot Springs, Hemet, and Palm Desert, Jeffries emphasized the need for cities to take responsibility for their own shelters. The adjustments were necessary due to higher operational costs impacting the Department of Animal Services, resulting in a 5% increase in rates for the municipalities.
The frustration expressed by Jeffries was further fueled by a recent lawsuit filed against the county by animal welfare activists in the Coachella Valley. The lawsuit, led by the Walter Clark Law Group, seeks to halt the Department of Animal Services‘ humane euthanasia programs, citing the Hayden Act of 1998, which states that no adoptable animal should be euthanized if it can be placed in a suitable home.
The plaintiffs in the lawsuit, supported by data from the Best Friends Animal Society, claim that Riverside County shelters euthanized more animals than any other reporting shelter in the United States in 2022. This has led to criticism and accusations of being the worst in the nation for kill rates.
Supervisor Karen Spiegel defended the Department of Animal Services, highlighting the challenges faced by municipalities in dealing with stray animals. She mentioned the significant number of animals impounded due to neglect and hoarding, putting a strain on the county’s resources.
Despite the county’s decision not to provide resources for contract animal control services in neighboring San Bernardino County, the Department of Animal Services continues to face pressure in handling unincorporated communities and servicing municipalities within Riverside County.
Efforts are being made to address the issues within the department, with the formation of an Ad Hoc Committee for Continuous Improvement of Animal Services led by Supervisors Manuel Perez and Yxstian Gutierrez. The committee aims to address high kill rates, adoption policies, data management, and collaboration with cities to improve animal services.
In conclusion, the challenges faced by Riverside County in managing stray pet populations and euthanasia rates highlight the need for municipalities to take a more active role in finding solutions. Collaboration between the county, cities, and animal welfare organizations is essential to improve animal services and reduce euthanasia rates. The upcoming efforts of the Ad Hoc Committee for Continuous Improvement of Animal Services show a commitment to addressing these issues and working towards a more sustainable and humane approach to animal welfare in Riverside County.