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Residents and rescue groups press Kern County for prompt fixes to animal shelter and abandonment response
Summary
Dozens of residents and rescue groups implored the Kern County Board of Supervisors to improve conditions at the county animal shelter, expand spay-and-neuter services and increase enforcement of abandonment laws. Supervisors said staff will return with updates and pledged further coordination on mobile clinics and a new shelter site.
Dozens of residents and animal-rescue volunteers told the Kern County Board of Supervisors on April 29 that abandoned and abused dogs are a growing public‑health and welfare problem across Bakersfield and eastern parts of the county.
Speakers described dogs left in orchards and desert areas, animals found dead or injured, and shelter workers handling overcrowded, hot and unsanitary conditions. Janet Armentar asked, “What will it take to end the tragic fate of dogs abandoned to face the dangers of speeding vehicles, predation by coyotes, poisoning from chemicals, shootings or starvation in our community's orchards?”
The comments prompted extended discussion among supervisors and county staff. Supervisor Peters noted the shelter’s staff has an above‑80 percent save rate and that the county is working to open a new…
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