Tulare County Animal Services outlines operations amid rising intake and staffing challenges

The Tulare County Board of Supervisors meeting on May 20, 2025, featured a comprehensive overview of the county's animal services operations, highlighting both achievements and ongoing challenges faced by the department.

During the meeting, a representative from Tulare County Animal Services (TCAS) presented a detailed report on the various facets of their operations, which include field services, shelter operations, and clinic services. The presentation began with a heartwarming story about Carson, a dog who suffered a severe injury after being hit by a car. Thanks to the clinic's capabilities, Carson underwent a successful leg amputation and is now set to be adopted by his foster caregiver.

The report emphasized the significant workload of the animal control officers, who cover vast areas of the county, averaging 250 miles of driving daily. They respond to approximately 6,000 to 7,000 calls for service each year, addressing a wide range of issues from stray animals to animal cruelty investigations. The officers often find themselves in complex situations, requiring them to act as social workers in addition to their primary duties.

The shelter operations team, consisting of nine staff members, manages the care of around 6,500 to 7,000 animals annually. The shelter is currently facing capacity challenges, with an intake rate that often exceeds its limits. The team is actively working to promote adoptions and foster programs to alleviate overcrowding.

The clinic operations, established in 2021, have made significant strides in providing medical care, including spay and neuter services. However, the clinic is currently facing a shortage of veterinary professionals, which has hindered its ability to meet the growing demand for services. The representative noted that 98% of animals entering the shelter are not spayed or neutered, a situation exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic when many spay and neuter services were suspended.

Looking ahead, TCAS is planning several improvements, including the replacement of aging vehicles and upgrades to security systems at the shelter. However, the department continues to grapple with challenges such as an increase in animal intakes and a lack of affordable veterinary care, which has led to a rise in preventable diseases among shelter animals.

The meeting concluded with a call for community support and awareness regarding the importance of spaying and neutering pets to help manage the growing animal population in Tulare County. The board expressed appreciation for the hard work of the animal services team and acknowledged the need for ongoing collaboration to address these pressing issues.