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Riverside County highlights shelter reforms, launches fee‑waived adoption push
Summary
County animal services officials showcased staffing and program changes aimed at boosting adoptions — including fee‑waived packages that cover surgery, microchips and vaccines — and described volunteer and foster expansions that officials say improved live‑release rates.
Riverside County supervisors heard a progress report on animal services on Jan. 21 as staff and ad hoc committee members outlined operational changes the county credits for rising adoption and live‑release rates.
Veronica Perez, public information officer for the Riverside County Department of Animal Services, brought seven 8‑week‑old German Shepherd mixes to the dais to illustrate the county's fee‑waived adoption promotion. The package, Perez said, includes spay/neuter surgery, microchips, vaccinations and an engraved ID tag and collar. "New year, new friend," Perez said, inviting residents to the Western Riverside shelter and noting the county offers transports, fosters and a "dog day out" program to increase animals' visibility and adoption chances.
Mary (executive office representative) and Kristen Hasson (Outcomes for Pets consulting) described internal changes that officials say closed critical staffing gaps and allowed staff to focus more heavily on volunteer coordination, customer service and foster programs. "Volunteer numbers doubled this past year," Hasson said, and the county has hired dozens of staff to support adoptions and public engagement. Staff also credited partnerships — including transport partners such as Wings of Rescue — for expanding placements nationwide.
Supervisors underscored the role of the ad hoc committee and community advocates in shaping the reforms. Supervisor Perez noted the county is aiming toward a 90% live‑release rate, acknowledging that 100% is not feasible for an open‑admission system but that recent months have brought the county closer to the target. Supervisors also referenced ongoing litigation and criticism from advocates about euthanasia and veterinary practices; Supervisor (unnamed) asked staff to address questions about recent lawsuits and euthanasia rates during follow‑up work.
The presentation listed several programs officials say contributed to improvements: extended public hours, the Ticket to Ride short‑term foster program for animals in transport, a DIBs program to shorten length of stay, and increased training for volunteer counselors. Staff said these changes have shifted public perception from shelters being chaotic to being places of hope and second chances.
The board did not take a formal vote on policy changes during the presentation. Supervisors encouraged residents to visit shelters, consider fostering and support volunteer efforts. The county will bring any policy proposals or itemized budget changes forward in subsequent agenda items for potential formal action.
