Orange County animal shelter outlines services, high save rate and community programs
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Summary
OC Animal Care briefed the council on Tustin campus operations, saying 2025 intake was about 15,000 animals with a dog-and-cat save rate above 90% (stated at 94%), expanded walk‑through adoption hours, new play‑yard surfacing from OC Waste & Recycling, and ongoing community programs such as microchip events, virtual training and a pet pantry.
An Orange County Animal Care representative presented a detailed overview of the Tustin campus and community programming to the Villa Park City Council.
The presenter said the campus—one of 14 cities' funded sites—received about 15,000 animals in calendar year 2025, of which approximately 12,000 were dogs and cats. "We continue to have a dog save rate over 90%. That is a goal called for in our strategic plan. It actually is at 94%." The shelter highlighted expanded open walk‑through adoption hours (daily, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.), on‑site veterinary services and a 7‑day vet coverage model.
Facility upgrades described to the council included the introduction of an organic ground cover in play yards in partnership with OC Waste & Recycling (cited as county green‑waste material certified safe for use around pets), agility equipment funded by donations, and an expanded adoption calendar: quarterly on‑campus events and a free microchip program that became permanent in 2025 (next scheduled microchip event noted for May 2, 2026).
The presenter also reviewed outreach and community support programs: low‑cost vaccination clinics through nonprofit partners, a family first pet pantry for residents in need (donation operated), pet licensing and discounts for veterans and older adults, and pilot programs such as virtual dog‑training access for adopters and a "dog's day out" field‑trip pilot.
Council members thanked the presenter and noted that expanded hours and educational outreach had helped address community misinformation and increased access since COVID reductions.
What happens next: the shelter encouraged residents to adopt, foster or volunteer and provided dates for upcoming events and a web resource for operations and volunteer opportunities.
