Long Beach Animal Care Services ends contract with SPCA LA for adoption center management

The Long Beach Animal Care Services (LBACS) held an operational update meeting on February 27, 2025, led by Melanie Wagner, who emphasized the organization's commitment to animal welfare. LBACS cares for over 4,000 animals each year and has successfully facilitated positive outcomes for 2,159 animals in 2024. Wagner highlighted the importance of quality care and community engagement through their CompassionSaves service model, which promotes responsible pet ownership.

A significant point of discussion was LBACS's decision to end its 26-year contract with SPCA LA, which has managed the adoption center on LBACS's campus since February 2001. Wagner explained that while the partnership had its merits, it had become detrimental to the health and well-being of shelter animals. She noted that SPCA LA's increasing control over campus space had restricted LBACS's operations, leading to a decline in adoption numbers for Long Beach animals, while LBACS's adoption rates had risen significantly.

By terminating the partnership, LBACS aims to regain full control of its campus, allowing for enhanced care and improved living conditions for shelter animals. Wagner outlined plans to increase adoption visibility, strengthen partnerships with rescue organizations, and implement an in-house trap-neuter-return program to address animal overpopulation.

The meeting concluded with a sense of optimism for the future of LBACS, as the organization prepares to make substantial improvements once it fully occupies the campus. Wagner assured the community that these changes would provide animals with better chances for long, happy, and healthy lives.