Every Thursday at the Los Angeles County Animal Care Center in Downey, Calif. the sound of clippers hums through the grooming room. At one station, a young man leans gently over a small terrier, murmuring softly as he brushes out the dog’s tangled fur. Not long ago, this same man was working to rebuild his life after incarceration. The terrier, once matted and frightened, is in the process of learning to trust people through receiving a pain-relieving and rejuvenating bath and haircut.

In last month’s blog I explained the similarities and differences between animal control officers and humane officers, and how their powers intertwine with police and sheriff deputies. Building on this information, let’s look at how the law allows us to help animals that are abused or neglected.

Enforcing laws protecting animals and people is a fundamental duty of animal control officers (ACOs) and humane officers (HOs). In most cases police and sheriff departments focus on more human-related crimes and defer the animal-related crimes to ACOs and HOs for resolution. Sometimes our officers are asked by residents, who are unaware of the scope of their powers, to perform enforcement actions that are either not legal or outside their authority. ACO and HO authority can differ from traditional law enforcement. Here is an explanation on how ACOs and HOs protect our animals and our communities.

Finding help for animals in Los Angeles County can be confusing. There are more than 14 animal care and control agencies and humane societies, each serving specific jurisdictions. Some operate multiple animal shelters. Each is limited to enforcing laws within their designated jurisdiction, but animals don’t understand jurisdictional boundaries and can wander into the next jurisdiction where their families won’t look for them.

Understanding Saves Lives: The Power of Language in Animal Care and Control When we think about animal care and control, our minds often go to animal rescue, pet adoptions, or enforcing laws regarding animal ownership. But one crucial component often gets overlooked: language access. Ensuring that people can communicate effectively with the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control (DACC), regardless of the language they speak, is not just a matter of convenience. It’s a matter of public safety and animal welfare.

Los Angeles County Code Title 10 regulates the keeping of animals in Los Angeles County. Sections of this code control the breeding of dogs to reduce dog overpopulation and euthanasia, enhance public safety, and ensure the humane treatment of the dogs. Title 10 is enforced in all unincorporated County areas, as well in the 45 cities that contract with DACC for animal care and control services.

As we navigate an ever-changing financial landscape, we at the Department of Animal Care and Control (DACC) remain committed to serving both the animals in our care and the pet owners who rely on our services.

The Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation (ACF) has long been a pillar of hope for animals in need, and now their incredible work is being recognized on a grand scale. The Los Angeles Business Journal has nominated the ACF for Nonprofit of the Year, a testament to their unwavering commitment to improving the lives of animals throughout LA County.

One of the challenges we face in animal welfare is seeing animals whose families do not provide the best practices for their pet’s health and happiness. Being a responsible pet owner is crucial to ensuring proper care for your pet.  Responsible pet ownership means ensuring that your pet leads a healthy, happy, and fulfilling life. February is National Responsible Pet Ownership Month. Here are the key responsibilities every pet owner should be aware of and prioritize:  

their homes, and their animals. At one point five separate fires were blazing. The two biggest fires, the Palisades fire and the Eaton fire, destroyed complete neighborhoods and communities. The ferocity of these fires shocked everyone and we are still reeling from the damage and loss of life. More Red Flag warnings and another rare Particularly Dangerous Situation warning are in effect this week, and we know we are not yet out of danger.