Animal shelters exist to save lives, provide refuge, and offer second chances to animals who have nowhere else to go. Yet, paradoxically, they are often vilified when difficult decisions like euthanasia are made. Criticizing shelters for euthanizing animals is as misguided as blaming libraries for illiteracy. Both are institutions created to address societal issues; they did not cause them.

I think we’re all glad that the extreme heat of the past few months here in southern California has passed, and we are now enjoying some beautiful fall days. As the temperatures start to fall, it’s time to put some thought into preparing to give our animals a little extra care to stay warm and safe during winter and the holidays. The weather, holiday food, festive plants, and decorations can all pose threats to our animals. Preventing accidents or exposure will keep our animals safe and healthy, and your veterinary bills low!

For many years, the dogs cared for by DACC have benefited from the Grooming Gives Hope program. This program, funded by the Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation, pays for professional groomers to come to the animal care centers and groom the matted, dirty dogs that have found their way to our centers. It is one of the most life-affirming programs we have, and I am thrilled that it is now expanding due to a generous grant to hire two full-time animal groomers for the next year!

Like most people who work in animal welfare, there have been animals I have come across in my career who have left lasting impressions on me. I still think about them decades later, sometimes with happiness and sometimes with regret.

Animal shelters serve as crucial havens for homeless, abandoned, and mistreated animals. However, many shelters are facing extreme public, political, and activist pressure to resist euthanasia under any circumstance, leading to severe overcrowding in their facilities with detrimental effects for the animals, staff, volunteers, and adopters. Alarmingly, some animal shelters have chosen to rely on temporary crates or other unsuitable means for long-term animal housing. While crates can offer short-term solutions for safety and containment, prolonged crating violates the Five Freedoms of Animal Welfare and must not be used as a routine housing practice.

When I was in high school l had the great opportunity to work for my town’s local veterinarian. I cleaned cages, cared for the hospitalized animals, and assisted the veterinarian when he needed an extra pair of hands. It was a great learning experience and introduction to the field of veterinary medicine.

A career in animal welfare is rewarding and fulfilling. We know we are making a difference in the lives of animals and people, helping keep pets and families together, reuniting lost pets with their families, and finding new homes for pets who were lost and never reclaimed or whose families could no longer keep them.

Did you know that Animal Control Officers and Humane Officers are mandated reporters of child and elder/dependent adult abuse? This is because there is a strong correlation, or link, between cruelty to animals and human violence. Animal abuse is a distressing reality that extends beyond the suffering of innocent creatures; it often serves as a chilling precursor to violence against humans. This dark connection has long intrigued researchers, law enforcement agencies, and psychologists alike, prompting extensive studies to understand its complexities and implications for society.

Independence Day and its aftermath are some of the busiest times for animal shelters because countless terrified pets have fled their homes in fear due to the noise of fireworks. In fact, DACC remains open to the public on this holiday when most County departments are closed, so pet owners can reclaim their lost and frightened family members immediately. It is a stressful and frantic time of the year for our staff, pets, and the families who have lost their cherished companions. As we eagerly anticipate the festivities of the Fourth of July—complete with fireworks, barbecues, and gatherings—it's important to remember that these celebrations can be stressful and even dangerous for our furry friends. For many pets, the loud noises and unfamiliar activities associated with Independence Day can cause anxiety and pose serious risks to their well-being. Let's explore some essential tips and advice to ensure your pets stay safe and comfortable during this patriotic holiday.

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.