Michelson Found Animals Commends the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Unanimous Motion for a Plan to Reduce Euthanasia Rates at County Animal Shelters

Los Angeles, CA, December 21, 2022 - Michelson Found Animals Foundation lauded the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors for passing a motion to significantly reduce animal shelter euthanasia. 

“I want to thank Supervisor Hilda Solis and Supervisor Janice Hahn for their motion to address the Department of Animal Care and Control (DACC) facilities, as we all have a shared interest in supporting the continued reduction of animal shelter euthanasia,” said Brett Yates, chief executive officer for Michelson Found Animals Foundation. “We have worked with DACC for many years and recognize their significant strides in reducing euthanasia rates across the county. We understand that, like every other animal shelter across the country, there are significant challenges that will require creative solutions, additional funds and continued partnership. We look forward to supporting DACC in developing these strategies to help reduce euthanasia and overcrowding.” 

The DACC will be required to report back within 90 days with a five-year plan to decrease the number and percentage of animals who are euthanized, including an analysis of the reasons for euthanasia, a feasibility study of achieving a 90% live release rate, and recommendations for expanding partnerships with rescues, fosters, and volunteers. In addition, the Board requested a plan to expand the mobile spay and neuter program to make it more financially accessible and an analysis of the potential costs incurred by DACC to reduce the rate of euthanasia. 

For the full motion, go here. 

“We are particularly pleased with today’s motion as it highlights the importance of increasing access and affordability to spay / neuter and on surrender prevention programs to help prevent owners from having to give up their pets due to financial hardship,” said Yates. “We look forward to working with the County on our collective efforts to reduce euthanasia rates, increase the funding to spay and neuter procedures, and the amount of the vouchers for spay and neuter to serve the lowest income residents in the County.”

Michelson Found Animals Foundation directly provides animal welfare services and champions pets at every point they intersect with our society. The foundation operates a range of initiatives, including grants and programs that put resources in the hands of communities in need, research that promotes pet-friendly policies, and more. Learn more at foundanimals.org.