Blog

Recently I had the opportunity, along with spcaLA President Madeline Bernstein and Inland Valley Humane Society & SPCA President Nikole Bresciani, to meet with NBC 4  reporter Kathy Vara to discuss the current challenges facing animal sheltering organizations.

The post-pandemic increase of dogs in animal shelters has been straining resources at animal shelters and rescue groups. We are all working at full capacity as we strive to find as many possible live outcomes for the dogs relinquished to our care.

There are several reasons for this increase. The demand for puppies or dogs during the pandemic created a black market for dog breeding, and the results are now arriving in our care centers. People who obtained dogs during the pandemic were not able to get them the socialization they needed due to lockdowns and are now unable to handle their unruly two-year-old dogs. Veterinarians had to limit medical care to emergencies only, and defer elective spay/neuter appointments, so we are now seeing puppies for the first time in years. Some pet owners are now struggling with the costs of owning a pet and must surrender them for economic reasons.

Rescue groups are also overwhelmed for the same reasons. The dedicated and compassionate adoption partners we have traditionally relied upon to adopt dogs from our care centers are already full with dogs surrendered directly to them by their owners. They have reduced ability to help us. In fact, our Downey animal care center recently held a special adoption partner event where we opened on a Sunday for our 200 adoption partners to adopt dogs. Only two organizations showed up, although one did take 10 dogs, for which we are very grateful.

Kathy has aired two reports on the current work done by animal shelters and rescue groups to address this. The links to these stories are below. Although these are challenging times for animal shelters, there are many compassionate people committed to making a difference for these animals. I am grateful to our dedicated staff, generous volunteers, and animal rescue adoption partners for all their hard work in saving lives.

Kathy Vara’s Reports

https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/overcrowding-at-la-county-animal-shelters-is-leading-to-euthanization-of-healthy-pets/3386059/

https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/volunteers-turn-to-social-media-to-give-shelter-dogs-second-chance/3393396/

Interested in becoming a DACC volunteer? Click here for more information: https://animalcare.lacounty.gov/become-a-volunteer/.

Please support the Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation. This nonprofit provides additional medical care, behavior and enrichment, adoption support, and more for DACC’s animals. Learn more at:  www.lacountyanimals.org

 

Marcia Mayeda

You can subscribe to Marcia’s blog here: https://animalcare.lacounty.gov/directors_blog/

In March of 2022 my husband and I volunteered to provide foster care for a two-year-old female Great Pyrenees dog for the Great Pyrenees Association of Southern California Rescue. She had been found on the streets as a stray by a wonderful woman who witnessed her being struck at by a person with a broom, so this kind rescuer bribed the dog into her car with some lunch meat and the dog made her way to safety at our Downey Animal Care Center.

She was emaciated, filthy, and had ear infections and diarrhea. Our Downey medical team treated her ear infections and tested her for parvovirus, giardia, and other diarrhea causes. She was vaccinated and dewormed. Great Pyrenees Rescue adopted her and provided ten more days of care at their veterinarian, but needed a foster family to take her in. We knew this girl needed help, so we stepped up. We took her immediately to the groomers for a good bath (she was so dirty we couldn’t tell what colors she was!) and named her Freya.

Freya weighed only 63 pounds, continued to have diarrhea, and her body had begun to shut down. Our wonderful veterinarian diagnosed a severe vitamin B deficiency; so low that her body couldn’t even absorb nutrition. She was in starvation mode, and we could feel every bone in her body. Her coat was thin, dry, and dull. But vitamin B injections, some antibiotics for GI troubles, and good nutrition began to turn her around. After four months, she weighed 89 pounds and her thin coat had fully blossomed – a background of white with patches of beige and a grey mask. She now has the thickest coat of all our dogs.

Despite her poor health at the beginning, Freya made immediate best friends with our other dogs. She and Holly, our four-year-old Great Pyrenees, formed a close bond and immediately began engaging in games of chase, bite face, and other canine fun. They became inseparable.

After four months, I just couldn’t send her on to a new home. This poor dog had only known hunger, loneliness, abuse, illness, and fear before she came to our house. Now she was healthy and thriving, with a best dog friend and pet parents who loved her. So, she became a permanent member of our pack. Some people jokingly call this a “foster failure” but to me it is a foster success!

I can’t tell you how rewarding it is to take in an animal that needs your love, care, and protection. There are so many wonderful animals for adoption at our animal care centers, each with their own history. Most do not have the health problems that Freya had, but if they do, they can make full recoveries. The majority are with us through no fault of their own – somebody left the backyard gate open, the owner is moving and can’t bring the pet, can no longer afford pet care, passed away, or other reasons that separated them from their animal. Many are already trained and housebroken.

I am always disappointed when I see people paying thousands of dollars for designer dogs that are the latest fad, when wonderful and loving dogs are in need of good, loving homes. Some people think the animals at shelters are defective in some way. That couldn’t be further from the truth. Some may need training or behavior modification, but even designer dogs will need to be trained and can come with genetic defects from inbreeding.

Freya has her quirks. She is on high alert on our walks and views other people and animals as threats. I’m sure that’s because she had to fight for survival on the streets. We just know how to manage her so she doesn’t have negative interactions and can enjoy herself. However, in our home she is as loving to anyone and any dog that comes over. She is also obsessed with tuna fish – we guess that she got whatever food she could scrounge from feral cat feeding stations when she was fending for herself on the streets. She loves to give kisses and snuggle and is a wonderful addition to our family. Her favorite place to sleep is on our bed.

Part of the joy of adopting an animal in need is getting to know them as they are – with their history, likes, and dislikes. Discovering their true personality and watching it bloom is extremely heartwarming. This month we are celebrating Freya’s “Gotcha Day” – the day when pet parents bring in a rescued pet to become part of the family. Freya, we’re very glad we gotcha! I encourage you to visit one of DACC’s animal care centers (or any animal shelter near you) and bring home an animal in need so you, too, can experience the joy of adopting an animal in need.

Marcia Mayeda

You can subscribe to Marcia’s blog here: https://animalcare.lacounty.gov/directors_blog/

The Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)3 charity that raises money to support DACC in its mission of saving animals and keeping pets and families together. Learn more at www.lacountyanimals.org.

One of my favorite sites on social media is the site called WeRateDogs. WeRateDogs asks pet owners to send photos of their dogs, then posts selected photos with humorous comments. Dogs are rated on a scale of one to ten, but always get an above-ten rating. The posts are always enjoyable and heartwarming. WeRateDogs has over 20 million followers across all platforms including Facebook, Instagram, X, and TikTok.

Matt Nelson, founder of WeRateDogs, expanded his support for dogs with his first GoFundMe for a dog in need in 2016. Since 2017, the WeRateDogs community has been fundraising every Friday, raising over $2 million to help families pay for their dogs’ medical bills.

This month, DACC is excited to be participating in a special collaboration with WeRateDogs and the 15/10 Foundation (named for the highest possible rating on WeRateDogs of 15 out of 10).

This unique collaboration will waive adoption fees for all German Shepherds and German Shepherd mixes age 1+ at all DACC animal care centers, with adopters only responsible for the dog license. DACC and WeRateDogs will especially focus on promoting senior dogs.

WeRateDogs is focusing on adult German Shepherds because on August 8, 2020, Matt adopted Doug from Deity Animal Rescue (one of DACC’s Rescue Partners.) Doug was a10-year-old German shepherd with severe ear infections and arthritis, who did not get along with other dogs. Despite his challenges, Doug proved to be an incredible pet, and an instant social media star. Motivated by his experience, Matt established the 15/10 Foundation, addressing the needs of shelter dogs with behavioral or medical challenges. Sadly, Doug passed away in late 2023, but his life and popularity as the “CEO” of WeRateDogs had a profound impact in changing the conversation around shelter pets and the challenges they face.

The 15/10 Foundation recently approached DACC with an initiative to support senior dogs, and we are immensely grateful for this opportunity to assist in finding homes for adoptable senior pets. The name of this special campaign is “Doug’s Buds,” in honor of Doug, and the impact he had in showing people the value of giving senior pets a chance.

The 15/10 Foundation and WeRateDogs have harnessed the power of the internet to make  life-changing differences in the lives of pets and their owners. This partnership is a tremendous opportunity to remove some barriers to adoption and show a larger audience that our animals have the potential to earn top marks as family pets.

Matt remarked, “We are so excited about our partnership with DACC. We are confident our audience’s longtime online support will carry over to the real world and make a difference in LA County shelters. We promised Doug we wouldn’t let him down, and this is a wonderful step to ensure that. Adopting a senior dog was the most rewarding experience of my life. I hope many other families begin the same journey this February.”

Studies show that Millennials and Gen Z are more likely to adopt their next pet than any other age demographic, making social media outreach critical to promote pet adoption and destigmatize shelter animals. While DACC has numerous longstanding partnerships with local media such as radio, broadcast and print, a collaboration with WeRateDogs represents a new frontier, expanding the Department’s influence on social media and allowing it to reach a larger audience of potential adopters.

We are only halfway through the month of February and have already placed 36 German Shepherds under the Doug’s Buds program! We have many more adorable GSDs that will make fantastic pets. Check out WeRateDogs and the 1510 Foundation sites for posts or visit our own website at www.animalcare.lacounty.gov. Perhaps you will find your new best bud!

https://www.instagram.com/weratedogs/

https://www.facebook.com/WeRateDogs

https://www.facebook.com/15OutOf10

https://www.instagram.com/1510foundation/

 

Marcia Mayeda

You can subscribe to Marcia’s blog here: https://animalcare.lacounty.gov/directors_blog/

The Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)3 charity that raises money to support DACC in its mission of saving animals and keeping pets and families together. Learn more at www.lacountyanimals.org.

Several years ago, I was walking our three dogs at the time – Isabella, a Great Pyrenees, Rebecca, a Golden Retriever, and Lucy, a Bernese Mountain Dog. In the middle of our walk, Isabella began having difficulty breathing. Her gums turned blue, she began vomiting, and collapsed. I was several blocks from home and couldn’t leave them unattended while I ran home for my van. I called my friend, who drove over immediately. We live about 15 minutes from an animal emergency hospital, and as we were driving there another friend called ahead to alert them to have a gurney ready to rush Isabella into treatment. The registered veterinary technicians were curbside when we pulled up, and Isabella went immediately into the emergency room. Her temperature was already 105 degrees.

It turns out that she had suffered an acute onset of laryngeal paralysis, where the cartilage in her larynx had collapsed and was blocking her ability to breathe. We had made it just in time, and the veterinarian intubated her with oxygen and stabilized her while he discussed her treatment options with me. The only recourse in this case was surgery to suture the collapsed cartilage to the side of the larynx to prevent it from obstructing her breathing. The surgery would cost about $5,000, an expense we had not anticipated.

Isabella was already nine years old, which is geriatric for a giant dog breed. However, she was otherwise in excellent health and we loved her dearly. My husband and I made the decision to have the surgery despite the cost, her age, and the potential long-term complications. I’m glad to say she lived another five years without any problems at all.

However, if we had pet health insurance at the time the financial burden would not have been an issue. At our animal care centers, we have seen an increase in owners surrendering their pets because they cannot afford the cost of veterinary care.
Having pet health insurance can forestall many difficult decisions and keep pets in the homes that want and love them. Just like humans, pets can face unexpected medical expenses, and having the right insurance can provide peace of mind. In this blog, I’ll walk you through the key factors to consider when selecting pet health insurance.

Understand Your Pet’s Needs:
Before diving into the world of pet insurance, take a moment to assess your pet’s specific needs. Consider factors such as breed, age, and pre-existing conditions. Some breeds are predisposed to certain health issues, and older pets may require more comprehensive coverage. Understanding your pet’s health profile will help you choose a plan that aligns with their unique requirements.

Coverage Options:
Pet insurance plans typically offer various coverage options, ranging from basic to comprehensive. Here are some common coverage types to consider:
a. Accident-only coverage: Covers injuries resulting from accidents.
b. Illness coverage: Covers veterinary expenses for illnesses.
c. Wellness coverage: Includes routine check-ups, vaccinations, and preventive care.
d. Comprehensive coverage: Combines accident, illness, and wellness coverage for all-encompassing protection.

Some insurance companies offer pet insurance discounts for multiple pets or other reasons. Check out what discounts might be available that you can utilize. Evaluate your pet’s needs and your budget to determine the most suitable coverage level.

Deductibles and Premiums:
Just like with human health insurance, pet insurance comes with deductibles and premiums. Deductibles are the amount you pay out of pocket before the insurance coverage kicks in. Premiums are the monthly or annual payments you make to maintain the insurance policy.

Consider your budget and how much you’re willing to pay out of pocket when selecting deductibles and premiums. Balance the costs with the level of coverage provided to find a plan that meets both your financial capabilities and your pet’s needs.

Exclusions and Waiting Periods:
Every pet insurance policy has exclusions—conditions or treatments that are not covered. It’s crucial to carefully review these exclusions to avoid surprises when making a claim. Additionally, be aware of waiting periods, which are the time frames during which certain conditions are not covered after purchasing the policy. Understanding these aspects will help you make informed decisions and plan for potential expenses.

Customer Reviews and Reputation:
Research the reputation of the pet insurance provider by reading customer reviews and testimonials. Look for feedback on the company’s responsiveness, claim processing efficiency, and overall customer satisfaction. A reliable insurer should have a positive track record of supporting pet owners during challenging times.

Network of Veterinarians:
Check whether the insurance provider has a broad network of affiliated veterinarians. This ensures that you can visit your preferred vet without any issues. Some insurance plans may restrict you to specific providers, so it’s essential to verify the network and choose a plan that accommodates your preferences.

Selecting the right pet health insurance requires careful consideration of your pet’s individual needs, coverage options, costs, and the reputation of the insurance provider. By taking the time to research and compare different plans, you can ensure that your furry companion receives the best possible care without compromising your financial stability. Remember, investing in pet insurance is a proactive step towards safeguarding your pet’s health and ensuring a happy and healthy life together.

Marcia Mayeda
You can subscribe to Marcia’s blog here: https://animalcare.lacounty.gov/directors_blog/ The Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)3 charity that raises money to support DACC in its mission of saving animals and keeping pets and families together. Learn more at www.lacountyanimals.org.

 

Being an animal lover from my earliest memories, one of my favorite childhood movies was Dr. Doolittle. As you probably know, Dr. Doolittle was a veterinarian who had the magical gift of being able to talk to animals. Oh, how I wished I was able to do so as well!

Unfortunately, this ability doesn’t exist in real life because it would really come in handy now. Veterinary telemedicine will be allowed in California beginning January 1, 2024. Like human telemedicine where patients discuss their illnesses over the telephone or video calls with their physicians, veterinary telemedicine allows pet owners to contact their veterinarians the same way to obtain diagnoses and medications for their pets. The establishment of a veterinarian-client-patient relationship (VCPR) can now occur without the veterinarian ever seeing the animal. Arizona, Idaho, New Jersey, Vermont, and Virginia also allow veterinary telemedicine.

Supporters of veterinary telemedicine include several animal welfare organizations who state this will improve animal health and reduce the surrender of animals into animal shelters due to lack of veterinary care. Other proponents are direct-to-consumer telehealth businesses like Chewy, Dutch Pet, Walmart, and digital startups that see the business opportunities available. The market is currently estimated to be worth $530 million in revenue and is anticipated to double by 2028.

While this innovative approach brings convenience and accessibility, it also raises concerns about the quality of care provided by telemedicine through the lens of the traditional VCPR. There are pros and cons to this new tool, and pet owners should be aware of its possibilities and limitations.

PROS:

Accessibility and Convenience:  There are remote areas in California that have a shortage, or even absence, of accessible veterinary services. Urban areas have “veterinary deserts” where there are no conveniently located veterinary hospitals in the area. Pet owners can seek advice or consultations without the need for a physical visit to the veterinary hospital. It’s especially beneficial for individuals with limited mobility.

Time and Cost Savings: Veterinary telemedicine can save both time and money for pet owners. Follow-up consultations and minor health concerns can be addressed without the need for a trip to the veterinary hospital, reducing travel costs and time commitments. However, pet owners should carefully assess their bills and prescription charges, as it may not be clear what corporation is monetizing this service. Make sure there are actual cost savings, or that costs are comparable to in-hospital services.

Stress Reduction for Pets: Some pets become anxious or stressed during visits to the veterinary hospital. Telemedicine offers a more relaxed environment for animals, allowing them to stay in their familiar surroundings during consultations.

Quick Response in Emergencies: Telemedicine can provide a quick response in urgent situations. Pet owners can seek immediate advice or guidance for potential emergencies, allowing them to take timely action before reaching a physical clinic.

CONS:

Limited Physical Examination: One of the key drawbacks of veterinary telemedicine is the inability to conduct a hands-on physical examination. Dr. Doolittle’s magical ability to understand animals allowed him to talk to the animals, but real-world veterinarians need to physically assess animals for accurate diagnoses. Pet owners may not correctly identify or communicate the underlying causes of their pet’s condition, causing a veterinarian to misdiagnose the illness and/or prescribe the wrong treatment.

Missing Other Key Health Needs: If pet owners rely too much on telemedicine, they will miss important opportunities for in-person wellness exams for their pets. These are necessary to maintain vaccinations and get baseline information on the pet’s overall health. Veterinarians can discover important medical issues that might not be apparent to the average pet owner. By skipping office visits, this information will be missed until the condition worsens and is more serious and expensive to treat.

Loss of Personal Connection: The traditional VCPR involves a personal connection built through physical interactions. Telemedicine may hinder the development of this bond, potentially affecting the quality of care and the understanding of the pet’s behavior. While some pets may be stressed at the veterinary hospital, it’s good for them to go there at least once a year for routine exams to build a level of acceptance in their mind. If the first time a pet is taken to a veterinary hospital is an emergency, they would not have had the benefit of a history of positive experiences there to help calm them during this urgent time.

Technical Limitations: Not all pet health issues can be diagnosed or treated remotely. Certain diagnostic procedures such as blood tests, skin scrapings, or X-rays require physical presence and cannot be conducted through telemedicine.

Legal and Regulatory Challenges: The field of veterinary telemedicine is still evolving, and regulatory frameworks may not be fully established. This lack of clarity can pose challenges in terms of accountability, prescription regulations, and standardization of practices.

Striking a balance between technology and traditional veterinary practices is crucial to ensure the well-being of our animal companions in this ever-evolving landscape of telemedicine. Just as Dr. Doolittle’s ability to communicate with animals was a magical and fantastical concept, veterinary telemedicine brings both magic and challenges to the world of pet healthcare. While it offers convenience and accessibility, it also raises concerns about the depth of care and the importance of physical examinations. The VCPR in-person practice has been a long-established requirement because animal patients cannot verbally communicate their health issues. Unless that patient is Mr. Ed!

 

Marcia Mayeda

You can subscribe to Marcia’s blog here: https://animalcare.lacounty.gov/directors_blog/

Please support DACC through the nonprofit Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation at: https://lacountyanimals.org/give/

Walking your dog can be one of life’s simple pleasures, offering exercise, bonding time, and a breath of fresh air for both you and your furry companion. However, safety should always be a top priority to ensure a positive and enjoyable experience for both you, your pet, and other people and animals in the community. At DACC, we see many instances of dog attacks and injuries when pet owners are walking their dogs. Many of these could have been avoided if the right precautions had been taken. In this blog, we’ll explore essential tips for safely walking your dog.

 

1. Leash and Collar Selection:

Choosing the right leash and collar for your dog is the first step in ensuring a safe walk. Choose a sturdy leash of appropriate length (typically 4-6 feet) and a well-fitted collar or harness. Do not use retractable leashes. They are very difficult to use in case of a dog attack or other emergency, the thin cord is hard to grab and can cause severe burns to your hand, and the cords can get easily tangled up around your legs or with other dogs or people, causing injuries. The collar should be snug but not too tight, allowing you to slip two fingers between the collar and your dog’s neck. Make sure your dog can not pull out of the collar by backing up or wriggling out of it. I have seen dogs do this when they are frightened by something, and then run away in fear. A well-fitted harness or slip collar will prevent this from happening.

 

2. Training and Obedience:

Before embarking on outdoor adventures, invest time in training your dog. Basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “heel” are invaluable for maintaining control during walks. Positive reinforcement training methods work wonders in establishing good behavior. Most importantly, have a good recall for your dog so you know it will come back to you in case you are separated. If your dog needs training on how to walk politely on a leash, find a reputable dog trainer that works with both of you so you and your dog each learn the best way to have a safe and enjoyable walk.

 

3. Be Mindful of Your Environment:

Always be aware of your surroundings. Check for potential hazards, such as broken glass, sharp objects, discarded food, or poisonous plants that your dog might encounter. Keep an eye on your dog to ensure they don’t ingest anything harmful. Do not use ear buds or other listening devices that will interfere with your ability to hear a potential threat. This could be a loose, aggressive dog or just a skateboarder rolling up behind you and your dog that could startle it and cause a panicked reaction –  or even a bite. Always scan the surroundings –  electric cars are silent and you may not hear one as you cross the street, a loose dog could be approaching, runners may appear threatening to your dog, or other potential risks can occur. The prevalence of coyotes in Southern California are a significant threat to small dogs and will even snatch them while they are being walked on a leash.

 

4. Wear Proper Footwear

Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are a must for dog walking. Athletic shoes or hiking shoes/boots provide proper support and stability for you in case there is a problem. Flip flops and sandals will not give you the traction and protection you need to run after your dog that pulled out of its collar, or defend you and your dog from an aggressive dog.

 

5. Use Poop Bags:

Always carry poop bags with you. It’s not just good manners, but also a crucial safety measure to maintain cleanliness and hygiene in your neighborhood. Worms and other intestinal parasites can be transmitted through feces left behind. Be a good example and conscientious dog owner and clean up after your dog.

 

6. Socialize Your Dog, or Take Precautions:

Make sure your dog is well-socialized. Arrange playdates with calm, non-confrontational dogs to help them interact positively with other animals and people. If they need work on this, book some time with a trainer or at a reputable doggie day care with trained employees who can supervise your dog’s interaction with other dogs and make sure they are positive experiences. If your dog is anxious or overly assertive with other dogs or people, do not allow it to interact with them and make certain you always have it under complete control.

 

7. Watch for Signs of Overexertion:

Dogs can get tired quickly, especially in hot weather. Keep an eye out for signs of fatigue, like heavy panting, slowing down, or reluctance to continue. Bring water for your dog and take breaks in the shade if necessary. Brachycephalic dogs (those with very short muzzles, like Boxers, French Bulldogs, English Bulldogs, etc.) overheat very quickly to the point it can be life threatening. Dogs that are susceptible to heat stroke should not be walked in hot weather. Similarly, dogs with very thin coats like Greyhounds should be provided with jackets to keep them warm in cold weather. Remember, as your dog ages it may need shorter walks or medications for arthritis – your veterinarian can make recommendations based on its particular needs.

 

8. Be Mindful of Weather Conditions:

Extreme weather conditions can pose a threat to your dog’s safety. In hot weather, avoid walking on scorching pavement, and in cold weather, be mindful of your dog’s comfort and safety. Consider using booties to protect their paws in harsh conditions. Salt used to  melt ice can be caustic to their feet and may cause them to become ill if they lick their feet and ingest it.

 

9. Respect Personal Space:

Not all dogs are as friendly as yours. Always ask for permission before allowing your dog to approach another dog or person. Be ready to recall your dog if the other party prefers not to interact.

 

10. Stay on Leash When Required:

Leash laws vary by location, so make sure to adhere to local regulations. Even if your dog has impeccable obedience, keeping them on a leash may be necessary for everyone’s safety. One of the biggest mistakes I see people make is letting their dogs run loose when they shouldn’t. Often the dogs run up to other leashed dogs that are not friendly, and a fight ensues. The owner of the off-leash dog will usually be held liable for all medical expenses because they were the ones in violation of the law. The dog could also be declared potentially dangerous or vicious, depending on the circumstances.

 

11. ID and Microchipping:

Accidents can happen, and dogs may slip out of their collars or escape during walks. Ensure your dog has proper identification, including a collar tag and a microchip, with updated contact information.

Walking your dog can be a wonderful experience when done safely and responsibly. By following these tips, you’ll not only protect your dog but also create a stronger bond and ensure a positive experience for both of you. Safe, happy walks await you and your four-legged friend!

Marcia Mayeda

You can subscribe to Marcia’s blog here: https://animalcare.lacounty.gov/directors_blog/

Help DACC in its mission of helping animals by supporting the Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation: https://lacountyanimals.org/

The Covid pandemic rewrote the social contract between employer and employee, creating new opportunities for work scheduling and locations. Employees discovered the benefits of working from home, achieving a better work-life balance by avoiding long commutes and other stressors associated with working outside of the home. One of those stressors includes leaving pets behind all day when they go to work.

As people consider returning to office-based work, new options are forming that guide their decisions. Allowing employees to bring their pets to work has taken off as an employer incentive to attract a committed workforce. There are so many benefits to allowing pets at work, and this option should really be considered by employers to attract and retain employees.

I can speak firsthand about the benefits of pets in the workplace. My dogs have always accompanied me to work, and coworkers bring theirs as well. Visitors to our offices love to get to know the animals and take selfies with them, while the dogs are thrilled to be spending time with the person they love all day long.

Pets at work transform the atmosphere at the workplace. The presence of pets has been scientifically proven to reduce stress and anxiety levels. Petting a friendly animal releases oxytocin, the “feel-good” hormone, which can help lower blood pressure and promote relaxation. Having a friendly furry face to interact with during a hectic workday can provide a much-needed mental break and help employees recharge their energy. Many times, coworkers in the office came to spend a few moments with my dogs just to take a break from staring at spreadsheets or documents on their computers.

Pet interactions often lead to impromptu conversations and shared moments of joy, strengthening relationships among colleagues. Contrary to common misconceptions, having pets in the office can boost productivity. Short breaks for petting or playing with animals can improve focus and prevent burnout. Additionally, the presence of pets has been linked to enhanced creativity. Their playful nature and ability to evoke a sense of wonder can spark fresh ideas and innovative thinking.

Pets are natural exercise companions. Having a dog around can encourage employees to take short breaks for walks, promoting physical activity and combatting the sedentary nature of desk jobs. These breaks not only benefit the employees’ health but also contribute to increased energy levels and mental clarity.

Allowing pets at work can alleviate the stress of leaving a beloved pet home alone for extended periods. Employees can enjoy the comfort of knowing their furry friend is nearby, making it easier to strike a balance between work responsibilities and personal well-being. They may even be willing to work a little later, not being worried about running home to attend to their pets.

Implementing a pet-friendly policy can set a company apart and attract pet-loving job seekers. It also demonstrates a commitment to employee well-being, which can lead to increased job satisfaction and higher employee retention rates.

The presence of pets in the workplace offers a myriad of benefits that extend beyond the adorable sights and sounds of furry companions. From stress reduction and improved well-being to increased productivity and creativity, the pawsitive impact of having pets at work cannot be denied. As companies continue to recognize the potential of this trend, the blend of professionalism and pet-friendly policies is proving to be a winning combination that fosters a happier, healthier, and more vibrant work environment for all.

 

Marcia Mayeda

You can subscribe to Marcia’s blog here: https://animalcare.lacounty.gov/directors_blog/

Working in the animal welfare field can be an emotionally challenging career choice. Dealing with life and death situations, witnessing animal abuse and neglect, and struggling with limited resources when there is so much need has caused many in this field to leave and pursue other types of work.

However, a significant reason people leave the animal welfare field is from being on the receiving end of vitriolic attacks by anti-animal shelter critics. Personal attacks, threats against their safety (and that of their children), and constant barrages and trolling on social media have caused committed, passionate, and talented people to leave animal welfare. This is a sad result, as this field needs these people to keep elevating the welfare of animals in our society.

When I encounter these attacks, I am reminded of the poem “Anyway” by Mother Teresa, which hung on the wall of her home for children in Calcutta. Her poem is a variation of an earlier work, “The Paradoxical Commandments” by Dr. Kent Keith.

“Anyway” impactfully describes life’s challenges, and how and why to respond. I often share it with colleagues facing the same situation. It was written for everyone, not just those who work in animal welfare, and I hope it resonates with you. Here it is:

ANYWAY

People are often unreasonable, illogical,
and self-centered;
Forgive them anyway.

If you are kind, people may accuse you
of selfish, ulterior motives;
Be kind anyway.

If you are successful, you will win some
false friends and some true enemies;
Succeed anyway.

If you are honest and frank,
people may cheat you;
Be honest and frank anyway.

What you spend years building, someone
could destroy overnight.
Build anyway.

If you find serenity and happiness,
they may be jealous;
Be happy anyway.

The good you do today,
people will often forget tomorrow;
Do good anyway.

Give the world the best you have,
and it may never be enough;
Give the world the best you’ve got anyway.

You see, in the final analysis,
it is between you and God;
It was never between you and them anyway.

 

This poem reminds us that we should persevere and make our best endeavors, guided by the meaning and value of our work, despite people committed to undermining our efforts. Whether you are guided by God, as Mother Teresa was, or your conscience, integrity, or other intrinsic beliefs, these words ring true. We can’t control what goes on around us, but we can control our response to it.

When we live and work according to our values, we remain fulfilled that we have done our best. No matter what others say or do, we can be true to ourselves, anyway.

 

Marcia Mayeda

You can subscribe to Marcia’s blog here: https://animalcare.lacounty.gov/directors_blog/
Help DACC in its mission of helping animals by supporting the Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation: https://lacountyanimals.org/