HomeMy WebLinkAbout2023-05-09 - AGENDA REPORTS - ANIMAL SHELTER SERVICES ANALYSISO
Agenda Item: 1
1. CITY OF SANTA CLARITA
AGENDA REPORT
NEW BUSINESS
CITY MANAGER APPROVAL: TA 4¢„� _�
DATE: May 9, 2023
SUBJECT: ANIMAL SHELTERING SERVICES ANALYSIS
DEPARTMENT: Community Development
PRESENTER: Tracy Sullivan
RECOMMENDED ACTION
City Council review and discuss an analysis related to animal sheltering services, and provide
direction to staff.
BACKGROUND
The City of Santa Clarita (City) currently contracts with the Los Angeles County Department of
Animal Care and Control (DACC) for animal care services, including the sheltering of animals
within City boundaries. These services are primarily provided through the Castaic Animal Care
Center.
In March 2022, following requests from community members for the City to open a local no -kill
animal shelter, the City Council directed staff to evaluate existing animal sheltering services and
explore options to enhance the services currently being provided through DACC. The City
sought an independent consulting firm to conduct the assessment and selected Citygate
Associates LLC (Citygate) based on its relevant experience and extensive knowledge of animal
care issues.
In developing the report, Citygate performed an in-depth review of DACC sheltering policies
and practices, including an analysis of animal sheltering statistics from Castaic Animal Care
Center. Citygate's research additionally included a review of animal sheltering policies and
current industry best practices.
The full report completed by Citygate is attached to this item for review. In addition, a summary
of Citygate's key findings is provided in the staff report below.
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Key Findings
The following represents key findings from Citygate's report:
No -Kill Policies - No -Kill Shelters strive to attain a 90 percent save rate, which means
that up to 10 percent of the animals placed in a No -Kill Shelter can be euthanized for any
reason, and still meet the definition of a No -Kill Shelter.
The term No -Kill comes from a movement that began in the 1980s and 1990s and was
formed in response to healthy animals being euthanized in shelters across the United
States. There have been many positive outcomes for animals in shelters as a result of the
No -Kill movement, including an emphasis on exploring all available alternatives prior to
euthanasia. However, there have also, unfortunately, been unintended consequences in
association with the No -Kill movement, such as unsafe shelter conditions and the return
of dangerous dogs to the community. For these reasons, People for the Ethical Treatment
of Animals (PETA) and a growing number of shelters nationwide have spoken out
against the No -Kill movement and have instead endorsed a newer movement known as
Socially Conscious Sheltering.
Socially Conscious Sheltering is guided by a shared set of principles, that puts the focus
on animals' quality of life instead of numbers. It emphasizes the humane treatment of
animals, and strives to ensure that every unwanted or homeless pet has a safe place to go
for shelter and care. Socially Conscious Sheltering has had wide adoption by animal
welfare organizations and is replacing No -Kill as the industry standard.
DACC Socially Conscious Policies - DACC adopted Socially Conscious Animal
Sheltering in 2019. The following two policies have been adopted by DACC as part of its
implementation of Socially Conscious Sheltering and have resulted in increasingly
positive outcomes for animals.
Managed Intake - The goal of Managed Intake is to identify alternative options
for stray and unwanted animals before resorting to impoundment. DACC provides
resources to pet -owners, such as food, supplies, and various supportive services,
to help prevent them from relinquishing their animals. DACC additionally
partners with the community to help reunite lost pets with their owners before
taking them to an animal care center. In the event alternative options are
unsuccessful, DACC does not turn animals away. DACC will accept the animal,
and provide it with necessary care.
Community Cats Policy - DACC has a Community Cats Policy which aligns with
nationally recognized best practices regarding the admission of cats. The program
was formulated in consultation with veterinarians that specialize in animal shelter
medicine at the UC Davis Koret Shelter medicine program, as well as leading
animal welfare organizations around the country. Under this program, community
cats that appear healthy with no signs of illness or injury without owner
identification are encouraged to be kept in the place where they were found
because they are thriving in their current environment. DACC partners with the
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community to ensure the best possible outcomes for these cats, and works to
provide access to spay/neuter services. The Castaic Animal Care Center has a
program where City residents may bring in cats to be sterilized to prevent the
birth of unwanted kittens, and also occasionally hosts spay/neuter clinics.
Castaic Animal Care Center Capacity - Citygate looked at the most recent six years of
data to determine Castaic Animal Care Center's capacity to serve the needs of the cities
of Santa Clarita, San Fernando, and the unincorporated portion of Los Angeles County
that the shelter is designated to serve. Castaic Animal Care Center experienced the
highest number of intakes from 2017-2019.
Even at the height of in -takes (pre-COVID and Managed Intake), Castaic Animal Care
Center is shown to have greater capacity than service levels demand, with 47 out of the
existing 56 cat enclosures occupied on average and 40.3 out of the existing 51 dog
enclosures occupied on average.
The report also notes that in the event of a surge in intakes, DACC is able to transfer
animals between its seven shelters in order to prevent overcrowding. Castaic Animal
Care Center has been able to accept transfers in from other service areas because it has
additional capacity. Alternatively, in the event there is a surge of in -takes at Castaic
Animal Care Center, DACC can leverage its network to transfer those animals out to
other shelters.
Lastly, while the Castaic Animal Care Center is an older facility, DACC has
implemented various upgrades, improvements, and renovations in recent years (2013-
2021), and the animal areas are climate -controlled.
Live Release Rates - A shelter's Live Release Rate is the percentage of live animals
cared for by the shelter that has a live outcome of adoption, owner redemption, transfer to
an adoption partner or rescue group, return to the community, or another outcome that is
not euthanasia.
In 2022, the Live Release Rate for dogs coming in from the City to Castaic Animal Care
Center was 89 percent. The Live Release Rate for cats was 86.2 percent. Taking the
average over the last five years, the Live Release Rate for dogs was 91 percent, and the
Live Release Rate for cats was 81.6 percent. It is the policy of DACC to make every
effort to reduce the incidence of euthanasia in County of Los Angeles animal care centers
and strive to only euthanize animals that are ill, injured, aggressive, or possess another
condition that precludes them from a live release.
DACC keeps record of each euthanasia and indicates the reason the determination for
euthanasia was made. Citygate reviewed these records for the dogs and cats coming to
Castaic Animal Care Center from the City and found the reasons for euthanasia primarily
to be either medical or behavior -related. Space is not the driving factor in euthanasia
decisions, and DACC will explore every available opportunity to place adoptable animals
in its care. This includes leveraging adoption partners and rescue groups, as well as
DACC-run foster programs.
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A detailed breakdown of the data is provided below.
Table 19—Live Fie lease Rates for Santa Clarita Dogs and Cats
Total Outcomes
485
I
593
674
231
168
253
Live Outcomes
324
466
531
197
134
218
Euthanized
161
132
143
34
34
35
Cat LRR
Dogs
Total Outcomes
66.8%
I
787
77.9%
2018
771
78.8%
2019
827
85.3%
2020
422
79.8%
2021
384
86.2%
2022
481
Live Outcomes
677
7a8
771
391
340
429
Euthanized
110
63
56
31
44
52
Dog LRR
Cats i Dogs
Total Outcomes
86.0%
I
1,272
91.8%
2018
1,369
93.2%
2019
1,501
92.7%
2020
653
88.6%
552
89.2%
734
Live Outcomes
1,a01
1,174
1,302
588
474
647
Euthanized
271
195
199
65
78
87
Cat and Dog LRR
78.7%
85.6%
86.7%
90.0%
85.9%
88.1%
Local Animal Service Organizations and Rescue Groups - The report highlights the Los
Angeles County Animal Care Foundation (Foundation), which is a philanthropic group
that partners with and supports DACC. The Foundation aims to support DACC through
fundraising for spay -and -neuter programs, pet adoptions, public education, and animal
welfare. The Foundation funds items and services beyond the budget of DACC, often
through grant funding and private donations.
The report also highlights several groups in the Santa Clarita Valley that provide services
and render aid to animals found in the City. Examples include groups that make adoption
connections, trap -neuter -release stray cats, provide foster networks for neonatal kittens,
assist with owner reunification for lost pets, and provide housing for animals that are not
adoptable due to health or behavioral issues.
Recommendations
Citygate ultimately recommends that the City continue contracting with DACC for animal
sheltering, as the Castaic Animal Care Center provides important services that have resulted in
increasingly positive outcomes for animals entering into its care. The report does not recommend
that the City build a secondary shelter, as DACC is adequately serving the community's needs
and adheres to industry best practices. The consultant does, however, recommend options for the
City to consider that would augment current services being provided through DACC and assist in
providing better long-term outcomes for animals. Based on the findings and conclusions
contained in the consultant's report, staff provides the following recommendations for the City
Council's consideration:
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1. Collaborate with DACC on providing spay and neuter clinics; low -fee (or no -fee)
vaccine, microchipping, and licensing clinics; special adoption promotions; and trap -
neuter -release services that aim to prevent the growth of stray and/or unwanted animals.
2. Utilize the City's communications platforms to augment DACC's outreach efforts,
increase adoption rates, and help raise awareness about available resources provided
through DACC and/or local non-profit organizations.
3. Create a program that provides grant funding to local non-profit organizations who are
supplementing the services provided by DACC and providing care for animals in need.
4. Partner with DACC and/or private donors for upgrades to the Castaic Animal Care
Center that would expand the facility or improve the quality of life for animals staying
there. Possible options include updating the climate control system in the dog holding
area, expanding dog play areas, creating a separate isolation area for dogs, expanding the
adoptable cat habitat area, adding designated areas for volunteers, or partnering on the
purchase of a permanent generator.
ALTERNATIVE ACTION
Other action(s) as determined by the City Council.
FISCAL IMPACT
None by this action.
ATTACHMENTS
Citygate's Final Report
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section
Page
ExecutiveSummary.....................................................................................................................................................1
Study Scope and Why Citygate Was Selected........................................................................................... I
Project Scope and Objectives........................................................................................................I
TheSelection of Citygate..............................................................................................................2
Organizationof the Report .........................................................................................................................2
Summary of Conclusions and Recommendations......................................................................................3
Section 1—Overview of Animal Sheltering Services Provided Through DACC...................................................5
Section 2—Animal Sheltering Statistics....................................................................................................................7
2.1
Overview.......................................................................................................................................7
2.2
Santa Clarita Animal Statistics......................................................................................................8
2.2.1 Animal Intakes..................................................................................................................8
2.2.2 Animal Outcomes...........................................................................................................13
2.3
Castaic Animal Care Center Statistics.........................................................................................17
2.3.1 Total Live Animal Intakes..............................................................................................17
2.3.2 Total Live Animal Outcomes..........................................................................................18
2.3.3 Transfers In and Out of the Castaic Animal Care Center from Other DACC Centers ....20
2.3.4 Live Release Rates..........................................................................................................21
2.4
Why Dog and Cat Statistics in Shelters are So Different............................................................23
Section 3—Effect of Policies on Current Sheltering...............................................................................................25
3.1
Overview.....................................................................................................................................25
3.2
A Historical Discussion of "No -Kill" Policy...............................................................................25
3.2.1 The Hayden Bill (1999)..................................................................................................26
3.2.2 The Asilomar Accords(2004).........................................................................................27
3.2.3 Shelter Animals Count....................................................................................................28
3.2.4 Effects of "No -Kill" Policy on Outcomes.......................................................................29
3.3
Socially Conscious Animal Sheltering Policy.............................................................................33
3.3.1 What is Socially Conscious Animal Sheltering?.............................................................33
3.3.2 How did the Socially Conscious Sheltering Movement Begin?.....................................33
3.3.3 DACC Adopted Socially Conscious Animal Sheltering in 2019
....................................33
3.4
Community Cats Policy...............................................................................................................35
3.5
Policies on Euthanasia.................................................................................................................36
3.6
Foster and Volunteer Programs...................................................................................................37
3.7
Managed Intake Policies..............................................................................................................38
3.7.1 DACC Managed Intake for Owned Pets.........................................................................38
3.7.2 DACC Managed Intake for Stray Animals.....................................................................39
3.8
Appointment -Based Services.......................................................................................................40
3.8.1 "Love at First Sight'........................................................................................................40
3.8.2 Availability of Services for Owned Animals..................................................................40
3.9
Adoption Promotions...................................................................................................................41
3.10
Outreach through Media..............................................................................................................41
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Section4—Shelter Needs Discussion........................................................................................................................43
4.1 Capacity for Care at the Castaic Animal Care Center.................................................................43
4.1.1 Determining Animal Capacity in Animal Shelters..........................................................43
4.2 Physical Plant..............................................................................................................................44
Section 5—Current Animal Advocacy Efforts in Santa Clarita............................................................................47
5.1 LA County Animal Care Foundation...........................................................................................47
5.2 Community Corner SCVTV........................................................................................................47
5.3 Informal Social Media.................................................................................................................48
5.4 Local Non -Profit Organizations..................................................................................................48
Section 6—Options for Consideration by the City.................................................................................................51
6.1 Overview.....................................................................................................................................51
6.2
City -Sponsored Events................................................................................................................51
6.3
Website, Social Media, and Other Communications...................................................................51
6.3.1 Website...........................................................................................................................51
6.3.2 Press Releases.................................................................................................................52
6.3.3 Social Media...................................................................................................................52
6.3.4 Newsletter.......................................................................................................................52
6.4
Special Projects and Expansion of Citizen Involvement.............................................................52
6.4.1 Targeted Trap -Neuter -Release Programs in Areas of Cat Overpopulation .....................52
6.4.2 Promotion of Volunteering or Providing Foster Care.....................................................53
6.4.3 Community Service Projects for Civic and Youth Groups.............................................53
6.5
Physical Plant Upgrades..............................................................................................................53
Section 7—Findings and Recommendations...........................................................................................................55
7.1 Findings.......................................................................................................................................55
7.2 Recommendations.......................................................................................................................56
Appendix
Appendix A —Pets Are Family Brochure (Los Angeles County Animal Care & Control)
Table of Tables
Table 1—Santa
Clarita Animal Intakes by Year(2017-2022)......................................................................................9
Table 2—Santa
Clarita Live Animal Outcomes by Year (2017-2022)....................................................................... I I
Table 3—Santa
Clarita Dog and Cat Intake Numbers (2017-2022)...........................................................................13
Table 4—Santa
Clarita Cat Outcomes by Year...........................................................................................................14
Table 5—Reasons
for Cat Euthanasias........................................................................................................................15
Table 6—Cat
Outcomes by Percentage of Total Cat Outcomes..................................................................................15
Table 7—Santa
Clarita Dog Outcomes by Year..........................................................................................................16
Table 8—Reasons
for Dog Euthanasia........................................................................................................................17
Table 9—Dog
Outcomes by Percentage of Total Dog Outcomes...............................................................................17
Table 10—Castaic
Animal Care Center Total Live Animal Intakes(2017-2021)......................................................18
Table 11—Castaic
Animal Care Center Total Live Animal Outcomes (2017)...........................................................18
Table 12—Castaic
Animal Care Center Total Live Animal Outcomes (2018)...........................................................19
Table 13—Castaic
Animal Care Center Total Live Animal Outcomes (2019)...........................................................19
Table 14—Castaic
Animal Care Center Total Live Animal Outcomes (2020)...........................................................19
Table 15—Castaic
Animal Care Center Total Live Animal Outcomes (2021)...........................................................20
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Table 16—Summary
of Total Animal Outcomes (2017-2021)..................................................................................20
Table17—Animal
Transfers — In................................................................................................................................20
Table18—Animal
Transfers — Out.............................................................................................................................21
Table 19—Live
Release Rates for Santa Clarita Dogs and Cats.................................................................................22
Table 20—Sununary
of Dog and Cat Live Release Rates...........................................................................................22
Table 21—Castaic
Animal Care Center — Animal Capacity(2022)............................................................................43
Table 22—Calculations
for Necessary Enclosures for Dogs and Cats........................................................................44
Table of Figures
Figure 1—Santa Clarita Dog and Cat Intake Trends...................................................................................................13
Figure 2—Santa Clarita Cat Outcomes by Category and Year....................................................................................14
Figure 3—Santa Clarita Dog Outcomes by Category and Year..................................................................................16
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
STUDY SCOPE AND WHY CITYGATE WAS SELECTED
Citygate Associates, LLC (Citygate) was asked by the City of Santa Clarita (City) to conduct an
independent study to assess the animal care and control needs of the community —specifically and
exclusively as they relate to the sheltering of animals coming from within City boundaries. This
study provides a data -driven analysis of current services, euthanasia rates, specific policy impacts,
and an evaluation of potential service gaps with recommendations on how to best address them.
This analysis will determine whether the community's distinct shelter needs are met under the
City's existing contract with the Los Angeles Department of Animal Care and Control (DACC)
and will detail viable options that exist for the City's consideration and implementation moving
forward.
To provide this analysis, Citygate first held a kick-off teleconference meeting with City staff to
ensure mutual understanding of the project scope and to enhance understanding of current services,
issues, and goals related to the provision of animal sheltering services moving forward. Citygate
obtained data from DACC as well as the City to analyze what services are being provided and if
the services meet the needs of City residents. Citygate evaluated animal statistics and outcomes,
reviewed relevant policies applied by DACC, and assessed the Castaic Animal Care Center and its
animal capacity.
Citygate held a Mid -Project Review meeting to discuss initial observations and findings and to
provide the City an opportunity to perform fact -checks and make any mid -course corrections
before preparing the Draft Report. Citygate then prepared a Draft Report documenting the results
of the study, including a review of how our approach and analyses were conducted, along with an
explanation of our findings and recommendations. The City was then provided the Draft Report
for its review and comments. Based on the results of the review process, Citygate prepared and
delivered a Final Report to the City.
Project Scope and Objectives
Citygate is providing an analysis of the following six issues of primary concern to the City:
A summary of shelter services provided through the City's existing contract with
DACC, including data on euthanasia practices and protocols.
2. A data -driven analysis of animal shelter needs specific to the City, as well as
euthanasia rates.
A detailed analysis of "No -Kill" policies and the effect of such policies on current
operations.
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4. A determination whether the community's shelter needs are being met by the City's
existing contract with DACC, and whether current practices align with "No -Kill'
goals and objectives.
5. A list of viable options for the City to consider, including options based on "No -
Kill" policies and best practices.
6. A recommendation on the best course of action, taking into consideration both the
needs of the community and "No -Kill" policies.
The Selection of Citygate
Citygate was selected for this project due to its dedication to providing assessment and
improvement services for public sector agencies and the qualifications, professional expertise, and
experience of the Citygate Project Team. Citygate has conducted various feasibility studies,
performance audits, and organizational analyses for well over 400 city and county governments
throughout the U.S., including many animal services reviews.
ORGANIZATION OF THE REPORT
This report is organized into the following sections.
Section 1 Overview of Animal Sheltering Services Provided through DACC — This section
discusses how animal care and control services are currently being provided in the
City through the contract with DACC. This section includes information on
protocols and practices provided by DACC.
Section 2 Animal Sheltering Statistics — This section reviews the animal intake and outcome
statistics for the City along with the full animal population cared for at the Castaic
Animal Care Center. There is also a discussion of live release rates.
Section 3 Effect of Policies on Current Sheltering Operations — This section provides a
thorough review of DACC policies, including historical information and how the
policies impact operations and animal outcomes.
Section 4 Shelter Needs Discussion — This section examines the capacity of the Castaic
Animal Care Center and how it relates to the animal population entering the shelter.
It also reviews the physical plant elements along with recent upgrades.
Section 5 Current Animal Advocacy Efforts in Santa Clarita — This section discusses the work
of the Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation and reviews some local efforts
to support the promotion of animal welfare.
Executive Summary
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Section 6 Options for Consideration by the City — This section offers several options or ideas
that could potentially augment services for the residents and animals of Santa
Clarita through expanding the partnership between the City and DACC.
Section 7 Findings and Recommendations — This section provides a list of findings and
recommendations based on the analysis contained in the report.
SUMMARY OF CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Based on this assessment, Citygate found that the contract with DACC meets the animal sheltering
needs of the City. The Castaic Animal Care Center has adequate sheltering capacity to care for the
animals coming in from the City, as well as from other geographical areas served by the Center.
DACC has progressive policies and follows best practices related to animal welfare, and services
meet and exceed legal mandates.
The Live Release Rate (LRR) for cats coming in from the City from 2017 through 2022 ranged
from 67 percent to 86 percent, with the highest rate in 2022. The LRR for dogs coming in from
the City ranged from 86 percent to 93 percent over the same period, with the highest rate occurring
in 2019.
DACC's current policies of Socially Conscious Animal Sheltering, Community Cats, and
Managed Intake are policies that correspond to current best practices in animal welfare. The
Department utilizes adoption promotions, appointment -based services, and social media to
increase adoptions. The Department has a charitable foundation that provides supplemental
funding and services not covered by the DACC budget.
Overall, Citygate recommends the City continue contracting with DACC for animal sheltering in
Santa Clarita. The current services and level of service selected by the City meet the current needs
of the City's residents and represent an economy of scale for the City.
Citygate also recommends the City to consider augmenting animal care and control services by
increasing its collaboration with DACC and pursuing the following list of viable options for
enhancing services:
♦ The services provided to residents of Santa Clarita could be augmented through
City -specific animal events including adoption, vaccination and licensing clinics,
spay and neuter services, and disaster preparedness.
♦ The City could expand its media engagement to include more information about
the Castaic Animal Care Center and animal welfare in general.
The City could help coordinate special projects that would increase citizen
engagement.
Executive Summary
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Finally, the City could partner with DACC and/or private donors/supporters on
physical plant upgrades that would improve the living conditions for sheltered
animals and promote a better experience for visitors and clients coming to the site.
This report cites findings and makes recommendations, as appropriate, related to each finding.
Findings and recommendations are all contained and sequentially numbered in Section 7. Citygate
identified 20 findings and developed a list of 7 recommendations related to this review.
Executive Summary
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SECTION 1-OVERVIEW OF ANIMAL SHELTERING SERVICES
PROVIDED THROUGH DACC
Citygate Associates, LLC (Citygate) was asked by the City of Santa Clarita (City) to conduct an
independent study to assess the animal care and control needs of the community —specifically and
exclusively as they relate to the sheltering of animals coming from within City boundaries. The
City has a full -service contract for Animal Services with the Los Angeles County Department of
Animal Care and Control (DACC). The contract services options selected by the City represent
the most complete / highest -level options in all areas, and include Full Animal Care Center
Services, Field Services under the Standard Plan, Individual Licensing Services, and Additional
Outreach and Enforcement Services.
Based on DACC billings to the City, the fiscal year (FY) 2022 gross cost for the program was
approximately $780,260. This amount was partially offset by credit for animal services -related
revenues of approximately $253,125, resulting in a net annual billing cost of approximately
$527,135 in FY 22.
Under the Full Animal Care Center Services section, DACC provides housing for all stray and
relinquished animals, animals that are neglected, animals under quarantine, or animals that pose a
threat to public safety. All animals are provided vaccinations, medical care, food, and shelter. The
program includes owner reunification for lost animals, making best efforts for adoption, providing
emergency care during disasters, spay and neuter services, medical treatment to make animals
more adoptable, and euthanasia (when necessary) and disposal of deceased animals. Services
include a current website with photographs of stray and adoptable animals.
Under the Standard Service Plan, Field Services includes answering calls for service 24 hours per
day, seven days per week, dispatching or assigning field staff, and performing duties in the field
based on priority, location, and availability of staff. Field duties include responding to calls about
injured animals, animals running at large, welfare concerns, bite investigations, cruelty or neglect
complaints, and a myriad of other types of field activities. The plan also includes maintaining a
24-hour dispatch and communications center to receive calls for service and dispatch staff for field
response as appropriate.
The Individual Licensing Services include
Issuing animal licenses for pets as requested by the City
♦ Processing license applications, payments, and information changes
Issuing license renewal notices
♦ Assessing and collecting fees, penalties, and other financial remittances
Section 1—Overview of Animal Sheltering Services Provided Through DACC page 5
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♦ Maintaining a database for animal licensing, records of calls for service, and actions
taken.
In the area of Additional Outreach and Enforcement Services, DACC provides animal licensing
enforcement, animal facility licensing including annual inspections and a grading scale,
vaccination and microchip clinics and participation in the Spay/Neuter Trust Fund which facilitates
low-cost or free spay and neuter services for City residents.
The contract also includes maintenance of records of activities and services provided to the City.
Upon request, the following standard reports are available from the DACC on a monthly basis.
♦ Dogs and/or Cats Impounded
♦ Animals Returned to Owners
♦ Dogs and/or Cats Abandoned
♦ Special Intake Dog & Cat
♦ Other Animals Impounded
♦ Quarantined Dogs and/or Cats
♦ Special Intake Other Animals
♦ Private Veterinarian (Outside Medical Expense)
♦ Dead Animal Pick Up Requests
♦ Types of Calls for Service
♦ Location of Impound
The animal care and control services provided to the City through its contract with DACC meet
all statutorily required mandates in addition to providing many services that are not mandated.
The Castaic Animal Care Center maintains the following business days and hours of operation:
♦ Open seven days a week from 10 am — 12 pm (by appointment) and 2 pm — 5 pm
♦ Exception — Wednesdays from 2 pm — 7 pm
♦ Closed on County holidays
F ..
Section 1—Overview of Animal Sheltering Services Provided Through DACC page 6
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SECTION 2-ANIMAL SHELTERING STATISTICS
2.1 OVERVIEW
The reporting of animal intake and outcome statistics is considered a best practice in the animal
welfare industry. Many shelters participate in providing data to the Shelter Animals Count
organization for its national database. Shelters also post the data to their own websites.
DACC posts its statistics for all animal care centers on its website. The statistics posted for the
Castaic Animal Care Center include all live animals received at the shelter, which generally
includes animals from the cities of Santa Clarita and San Fernando and animals from the
unincorporated area of the County served by the Center. For the purposes of this report, Citygate
obtained animal statistics from DACC, specific to intakes from the City of Santa Clarita only.
The human population served by the Center is approximately 326,250, broken down as City of
Santa Clarita 228,835,' City of San Fernando 23,519,2 and unincorporated County 73,896.3
The COVID-19 pandemic has had major impacts on the animal welfare industry. Shelter and field
operations were limited to critical needs, shelters were closed or only open by appointment, and
conversely, interest in animal adoptions and fostering became very active. Initially, shelters were
housing significantly fewer animals, having far less (or no) foot traffic, and there was a reduction
in field activities for animal control officers. Animal welfare agencies encountered the same
challenges faced by many businesses, including staffing shortages due to staff being infected with
COVID-19 or suffering from long COVID. Unlike some entities, animal shelters could not allow
most staff to work remotely, as shelter animals need to be cared for seven days a week, and field
operations require officers to respond to locations to resolve animal concerns in addition to
providing 24/7 emergency services.
Statistically, animal intake numbers and field activity numbers were radically reduced in 2020 and
2021. As the country started to adjust to the effects of the pandemic, and COVID-19 vaccinations
became available, the trend began to reverse. Shelters opened their doors and began to take in more
animals, and responses to field activities increased. When reviewing statistics and trends, these
factors play a role in evaluating shelter operations. As Citygate analyzed statistics for the Castaic
Animal Care Center, Citygate observed that animal intakes are following the national trend and
began to increase in 2022.
'State of California Department of Finance, E-5 Population and Housing Estimates for Cities, Counties, and the State,
.January 1, 2021-2022, Sacramento, California, May 2022.
z Ibid.
s Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control, 2022.
Section 2—Animal Sheltering Statistics page 7 j
Packet Pg. 24
1.a
City of Santa Clarita, CA
Animal Care and Control Sheltering Services Assessment
2.2 SANTA CLARITA ANIMAL STATISTICS
DACC provided Citygate with animal intakes and outcomes for animals received from within the
City from 2017 through 2022. The following information includes intake numbers for all animals,
animal outcome numbers, euthanasia numbers, and calculations of the annual Live Release Rate
(LRR) for dogs and cats.
2.2.1 Animal Intakes
The following table shows live animal intakes in the City from 2017 through 2022. Animal intakes
are broadly categorized as owned animals or stray animals. Each species is broken down by sub-
type of intake, such as stray, owner surrender, abandoned, police request, etc. DACC does not
accept animals for owner -requested euthanasia so that sub -category does not appear.
Section 2—Animal Sheltering Statistics page 8
Packet Pg. 25
1.a
City of Santa Clarita, CA
Animal Care and Control Sheltering Services Assessment
Table 1—Santa Clarita
Bird 160
Emer Evac 1
Owner Sur 11
Stray 148
Cat 567
Abandoned 2
Owner Died 6
Owner Sur 175
Pd Request 5
Return 33
Stray 346
Dog 828
Abandoned 3
Arrested 4
Confiscate 6
Danger Dog 1
Hospitaliz 1
Owner Died 1
Owner Sur 239
Pd Request 10
Return 69
Stray 494
Livestock 7
Emer Evac 4
Stray 3
Other 476
Owner Sur 26
Stray 450
Total 2,038
*Cola Hi = County of Los Angeles Homeless Initiative
Section 2—Animal Sheltering Statistics
Animal
Intakes by
Year (2017-2022)
Bird
233
9
Bird
220
owned
Owner Sur
16
Emer Evac
7
Stray
204
Owner Died
1
Cat
684
Owner Sur
12
Arrested
2
Stray
213
Cola Hi*
5
Cat
751
Emer Evac
2
Cola Hi*
3
Owner Died
2
Emer Evac
41
Owner Sur
205
Hospitaliz
1
Pd Request
5
Owner Died
2
Return
33
Owner Sur
187
Stray
430
Pd Request
8
Dog
795
Return
47
Arrested
8
Stray
462
Confiscate
6
Dog
842
Danger Dog
1
Arrested
14
Hospitaliz
3
Cola Hi
7
Owner Died
3
Confiscate
2
Owner Sur
235
Emer Evac
36
Pd Request
15
Hospitaliz
4
Return
86
Owner Died
3
Stray
438
Owner Sur
257
Livestock
3
Pd Request
47
Cola Hi
2
Return
91
Owner Sur
1
Stray
381
Other
682
Livestock
18
Owner Died
1
Emer Evac
16
Owner Sur
33
Stray
2
Return
1
Other
598
Stray
647
Cola Hi
1
Total
2,384
Emer Evac
2
- temporary
housing of pet(s)
Owner Sur
50
Pd Request
1
Stray
544
Total
2,442
by un-housed persons
page
Packet Pg. 26
1.a
City of Santa Clarita, CA
Animal Care and Control Sheltering Services Assessment
Santa Clarita Animal Intakes by Year (2017-2022 Continued)
Bird 196
Owner Sur
1
Stray
195
Cat
298
Abandoned
18
Owner Sur
61
Pd Request
3
Return
11
Stray
205
Dog
445
Arrested
6
Cola Hi*
1
Hospitaliz
2
Owner Died
1
Owner Sur
107
Pd Request
17
Return
44
Stray
267
Livestock
1
Stray
1
Other
633
Confiscate
1
Owner Sur
21
Pd Request
1
Return
1
Stray
609
Total
1,573
Bird
218
Owner Sur
28
Stray
190
Cat
246
Abandoned
2
Owner Sur
51
Pd Request
1
Return
16
Stray
176
Dog
403
Arrested
3
Hospitaliz
1
Owner Died
1
Owner Sur
110
Pd Request
18
Return
40
Stray
230
Livestock
4
Stray
4
Other
678
Owner Sur
39
Pd Request
1
Return
4
Stray
634
Total
1,549
Bird 147
Owner Sur
1
Stray
146
Cat
348
Owner Hosp
1
Owner Sur
134
Pd Request
9
Return
13
Stray
191
Dog
518
Arrested
2
Hospitaliz
2
Abandon
6
Owner Sur
146
Pd Request
30
Return
66
Stray
263
Livestock
5
Court
1
Emerg Evac
4
Other
569
Owner Sur
26
Return
1
Stray
542
Total
1,587
*Cola Hi = County of Los Angeles Homeless Initiative — temporary housing of pet(s) owned by un-housed persons
The following table shows outcomes for live animals from the City by year from 2017 through
2022. Each species is broken down by sub -type of outcome, including adoption, rescue/transfer,
return to owner, return to nature, released to wildlife rescue, euthanized, died, or escaped.
Section 2—Animal Sheltering Statistics
page 10
Packet Pg. 27
1.a
City of Santa Clarita, CA
Animal Care and Control Sheltering Services Assessment
Table 2—Santa Clarita Live Animal Outcomes by Year (2017-2022)
Bird
106
Bird
159
Adoption
19
Adoption
24
Died
10
Died
8
Euthanized
66
Escaped
1
RTN
7
Euthanized
84
RTO
1
RTN
23
Wild Rescue
3
RTO
1
Cat
499
Wild Rescue
18
Adoption
276
Cat
619
Aspcatrans
10
Adoption
425
Close2home
9
Aspcatrans
3
Died
12
Died
18
Escaped
2
Escaped
3
Euthanized
161
Euthanized
132
Rescue
4
Rescue
8
RTO
25
RTO
30
Dog
793
Dog
776
Adoption
346
Adoption
386
Aspcatrans
5
Aspcatrans
8
Close2home
6
Died
5
Died
6
Euthanized
63
Euthanized
110
Rescue
43
Rescue
56
RTO
263
RTO
263
RTO Fld Id
3
RTO Micro
1
RTO Fldmic
1
Livestock
5
RTO Micro
4
Euthanized
1
Livestock
3
RTO
4
Euthanized
1
Other
200
RTO
2
Adoption
30
Other
337
Died
7
Adoption
44
Escaped
1
Died
9
Euthanized
110
Euthanized
184
Rescue
1
Rescue
2
RTN
44
RTN
89
RTO
2
RTO
3
Wild Rescue
5
Wild Rescue
6
Total
1 1, 603
Total
1,894
Bird
149
Adoption
9
Died
5
Euthanized
106
RTN
20
RTO
7
Wild Rescue
2
Cat
688
Adoption
462
Died
10
Escaped
2
Euthanized
143
Missing
2
Rescue
4
RTO
65
Dog
829
Adoption
419
Died
2
Euthanized
56
Rescue
58
RTO
292
RTO Fld Id
1
RTO Micro
1
Livestock
18
RTO
18
Other
319
Adoption
56
Died
9
Escaped
2
Euthanized
142
Missing
1
Rescue
4
RTN
98
RTO
2
Wild Rescue
5
Total
2,003
Section 2—Animal Sheltering Statistics
page 11
Packet Pg. 28
1.a
City of Santa Clarita, CA
Animal Care and Control Sheltering Services Assessment
Santa Clarita Live Animal Outcomes by Year (2017-2022 Continued)
Bird 129
Adoption
6
Died
8
Escaped
1
Euthanized
95
RTN
9
Wild Rescue
10
Cat
236
Adoption
178
Aspcapw
2
Died
5
Euthanized
34
Rescue
5
RTO
11
RTO Fldmic
1
Dog
424
Adoption
181
Died
2
Euthanized
31
Rescue
48
RTO
159
RTO Fld Id
1
RTO Fldmic
2
Other
305
Adoption
42
Died
14
Euthanized
187
Rescue
1
RTN
53
RTO
3
Wild Rescue
5
Grand Total
1,094
Bird 153
Adoption
28
Died
6
Escaped
1
Euthanized
92
RTN
9
RTO
11
Wild Rescue
6
Cat
172
Adoption
123
Died
4
Euthanized
34
Rescue
2
RTO
9
Dog
386
Adoption
167
Died
2
Euthanized
44
Rescue
37
RTO
132
RTO Fld Id
2
RTO Fldmic
2
Livestock
4
RTO
4
Other
352
Adoption
62
Died
13
Escaped
1
Euthanized
220
RTN
48
RTO
4
Wild Rescue
4
Grand Total
1,067
Bird 105
Adoption
11
Died
11
Escaped
Euthanized
64
RTN
10
RTO
1
Wild Rescue
8
Cat
259
Adoption
186
Euthanized
35
RTO
22
Rescue
10
Escaped
6
Dog
481
Adoption
252
Euthanized
52
RTO
140
Rescue
37
Livestock
5
RTO
5
Other
278
Adoption
42
Euthanized
151
RTN
62
RTO
2
Died
13
Wild Rescue
8
Grand Total
1,128
Section 2—Animal Sheltering Statistics
page 12
Packet Pg. 29
1.a
City of Santa Clarita, CA
Animal Care and Control Sheltering Services Assessment
The following table shows the intake numbers of live dogs and cats in the City from 2017 through
2022.
Table 3—Santa Clarita Doe and Cat Intake Numbers (2017-2022)
The following figure shows cat, dog, and combined cat and dog intakes in the City from 2017
through 2022. It shows the trend of increased intakes through 2019, with a marked drop in 2020
and 2021 likely due to the effects of COVID-19, along with the implementation of managed intake.
Intakes in 2022 have begun to trend up, as has been reported by many animal care and control
agencies of which Citygate is aware.
Figure 1—Santa Clarita Doe and Cat Intake Trends
6 Year Dog and Cat Intakes from Santa Clarita
1800
1600
1400
1200
1000
800
600
400
200
0
2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
CATS DOGS CATS + DOGS
2.2.2 Animal Outcomes
Measuring outcomes for sheltered animals is an important part of meeting life-saving goals and
maximizing positive outcomes. While animals entering shelters are basically identified as stray or
owned, there are multiple ways to categorize outcomes. Live outcomes for shelter animals include
"return to owner" (RTO), adoption, transfer to another shelter, release to a rescue organization or
adoption partner, return to nature, and trap -neuter -release. Non -live outcomes for sheltered
animals include euthanasia and "died in care." Citygate is focusing on dog and cat outcomes
Section 2—Animal Sheltering Statistics page 13 1 A
Packet Pg. 30
1.a
City of Santa Clarita, CA
Animal Care and Control Sheltering Services Assessment
following the principles of the Asilomar Accords (Section 3 of this report includes a historical
discussion of "No -Kill" policy).
Cat Outcomes
The following tables and figure depict outcomes for cats coming in from the City over the past six
years.
Table 4—Santa Clarita Cat Outcomes by Year
Outcome
Adoption
2017
276
2018
425
2019
462
2020
178
123
186
Return to Owner
25
30
65
12
9
22
Rescue
23
11
4
7
2
10
Died/Escaped
14
21
14
5
4
6
Euthanized
161
132
143
34
34
35
Total
499
619
688
236
172
259
Figure 2—Santa Clarita Cat Outcomes by Category and Year
Santa Clarita Cat Outcomes
800
700
600
500
400
300
200
100
2017 2018
_1 I_._.
2019 2020
2021 2022
� Adoption � Return to Owner i Rescue
� Died/Escaped � Euthanized Total
.N
c
Q
m
m
co
a►
c
•L
m
m
co
M
E
.E
Q
0
a
m
C
U_
N
N
r
ca
tM
r
U
C
N
t
U
ca
r
r
Q
Section 2—Animal Sheltering Statistics
page 14
Packet Pg. 31
1.a
City of Santa Clarita, CA
Animal Care and Control Sheltering Services Assessment
The following table shows the reasons for euthanasia in cats over the past six years.
Table 5—Reasons for Cat Euthanasias
Cat
161
Cat
132
019
Cat
143
2020
Cat
34
Cat 34 Cat 35
Behavior
13
Behavior
5
Behavior
24
Behavior
10
Behavior 2 Injured 9
Feral
69
Feral
51
Feral
56
Feral
1
Injured 6 Other Med 25
Injured
6
Injured
14
Injured
12
Injured
5
Other Med 18 Too Young 1
Other Med
31
Other Med
28
Other Med
18
Other Med
15
Too Young 8
Too Young
40
Too Young
28
Parvo
3
Too Young 3
Upper Resp
2
Upper Resp
6
Space
3
Too Young
27
Citygate reviewed the individual records for the three cats reported to be euthanized for space in
2019, the only year that showed space as a reason for euthanasia. The first record showed a three-
year -old stray cat that was held for 20 days, was medically treated, with an outcome condition
shown as ill. The second record was a 15-year-old owner surrendered cat that was held for 10 days
with the outcome condition shown as ill. The third record was a seven -year -old owner surrendered
cat that was held for 12 days, became sick after 7 days, was medically treated, with an outcome
condition shown as sick.
Table 6—Cat Outcomes by Percentage of Total Cat Outcomes
The outcome trends for cats follow the overall outcome numbers, with adoption trends almost
matching total outcomes. As a percentage of total outcomes, cat adoption rates ranged from 55
percent to 75 percent (for the first year of COVID-19). Cat euthanasia trended downward from
2017 through 2022 but had a spike in 2021. As discussed elsewhere in this report, the RTO rate
for cats in animal shelters is typically low throughout the animal sheltering industry. The numbers
for cat percentages of reclaims in the City is consistent with an RTO rate that was approximately
5 percent, with the exception of an increased rate of 9.4 percent in 2019.
Section 2—Animal Sheltering Statistics page 15 1 A
Packet Pg. 32
1.a
City of Santa Clarita, CA
Animal Care and Control Sheltering Services Assessment
Dog Outcomes
The following tables and figure depict the outcomes for dogs coming in from the City over the
past six years.
Table 7—Santa Clarita Dog Outcomes by Year
Outcome
Adoption
2017
346
2018
386
2019
419
2020
181
167
252
Return to Owner
264
271
294
162
136
140
Rescue
67
51
58
48
37
37
Died/Escaped
6
5
2
2
2
-
Euthanized
110
63
56
31
44
52
Total
793
776
829
424
386
481
Figure 3—Santa Clarita Doe Outcomes by Category and Year
Santa Clarita Dog Outcomes
900
800
700
600
500
400
300
200
1000-1 ■■ ■ ■
2017 2018 2019
110 . 110 ■ 11. . ■
2020 2021 2022
� Adoption � Return to Owner � Rescue
� Died/Escaped � Euthanized Total
Section 2—Animal Sheltering Statistics
page 16
Packet Pg. 33
1.a
City of Santa Clarita, CA
Animal Care and Control Sheltering Services Assessment
The following table shows the reasons for euthanasia in dogs over the last six years.
Table 8-Reasons for Dog Euthanasia
2017
Dog
110
2018
Dog
63
2019
Dog
56
2020
Dog 31
2021
Dog 44
Dog
52
Behavior
55
Behavior
26
Behavior
30
Behavior 21
Behavior
25
Behavior
31
Injured
5
Injured
9
Distemper
1
Other Med 9
Injured
5
Injured
2
Other Med
47
Other Med
24
Injured
7
Parvo 1
Other Med
12
Other Med
15
Upper Resp
3
Parvo
4
Other Med
16
Parvo 2 Unable To Place 4
Parvo
2
Table 9-Do2 Outcomes by Percentage of Total Dog Outcomes
Outcome
Adoption
2017
43.6%
2018
49.7%
2019
50.5%
2020
42.7%
2021
43.3%
2022
52.4%
Return to Owner
33.3%
34.9%
35.5%
38.2%
35.2%
29.1 %
Rescue
8.4%
6.6%
7.0%
11.3%
9.6%
7.7%
Died/Escaped
0.8%
0.6%
0.2%
0.5%
0.5%
0%
Euthanized
13.9%
8.1 %
6.8%
7.3%
11.4%
10.8%
The RTO rate for dogs in shelters varies by community but is consistently higher than the RTO
rate for cats. The RTO rate for dogs from the City was the highest in 2020 (38.2 percent) and
ranged from about 29 percent to 38 percent over the six -year period. Dog adoption rates as a
percentage of total outcomes ranged from about 43 percent to over 52 percent, with the highest
percentage in 2022. The trend line for dog euthanasia was variable, ranging from a low of about 7
percent in 2019 to a high of almost 14 percent in 2017, and trending upward in 2021 and 2022.
2.3 CASTAIC ANIMAL CARE CENTER STATISTICS
For this assessment, Citygate is including information on the total animal population cared for by
the Center. By including this information, the "big picture" of capacity for care is included in the
study.
2.3.1 Total Live Animal Intakes
The following table summarizes the live animal intakes for the years 2017 through 2021.
WIN .
Section 2-Animal Sheltering Statistics page 17 l A
Packet Pg. 34
1.a
City of Santa Clarita, CA
Animal Care and Control Sheltering Services Assessment
Table 10—Castaic Animal Care Center Total Live Animal Intakes (2017-2021)
"The large number of "Other" in 2017 represents impounded fighting cocks
If an adjustment is made to normalize the number of "Other" intakes in 2017, the trend shows a
slight downward trend of intakes from 2017 through 2019, followed by a dramatic decrease in
intakes in years 2020 and 2021 due to the impacts of COVID-19.
2.3.2 Total Live Animal Outcomes
The next five tables show the live animal outcomes by year and category from 2017 through 2021
Table 11—Castaic Animal Care Center Total Live Animal Outcomes (2017)
Type
Adoption
Cat
682
...
927
Other
113
1,722
Died
20
8
29
57
Escaped
6
-
2
8
Euthanized
284
176
6,932**
7,392
Rescue
68
215
23
306
Return to Nature
-
-
108
108
Return to Owner
49
441
141
631
Total
1,109
1,767
7,348
10,224
'The large number of "Other" in 2017 represents impounded fighting cocks
..III':..
Section 2—Animal Sheltering Statistics page 18
Packet Pg. 35
1.a
City of Santa Clarita, CA
Animal Care and Control Sheltering Services Assessment
Table 12—Castaic Animal Care Center Total Live Animal Outcomes (2018)
Type
Adoption
Cat
712
...
932
Other
124
1,768
Died
33
12
26
71
Escaped
3
-
2
5
Euthanized
217
101
439
757
Rescue
28
129
37
194
Return to Nature
-
-
179
179
Return to Owner
59
482
32
573
Total
1,052
1,656
839
3,547
Table 13—Castaic Animal Care Center Total Live Animal Outcomes (2019)
Type
Adoption
Cat
841
...
867
Other
109
1,817
Died
33
3
19
55
Escaped
3
1
7
11
Euthanized
277
89
365
731
Rescue
8
114
29
151
Return to Nature
-
-
172
172
Return to Owner
78
479
41
598
Total
1,240
1,553
742
3,535
Table 14—Castaic Animal Care Center Total Live Animal Outcomes (2020)
Type
Adoption
Cat
362
D..
365
Other
142
869
Died
9
3
27
39
Escaped
-
-
1
1
Euthanized
83
50
425
558
Rescue
17
87
39
143
Return to Nature
-
-
92
92
Return to Owner
19
274
10
303
Total
490
779
736
2,005
Section 2—Animal Sheltering Statistics page 19
Packet Pg. 36
1.a
City of Santa Clarita, CA
Animal Care and Control Sheltering Services Assessment
Table 15—Castaic Animal Care Center Total Live Animal Outcomes (2021)
Type
Adoption
Cat
275
...
456
Other
148
879
Died
6
4
34
44
Escaped
-
-
4
4
Euthanized
56
77
516
649
Rescue
6
69
29
104
Return to Nature
-
-
96
96
Return to Owner
12
242
23
277
Total
355
848
850
2,053
Table 16—Summary of Total Animal Outcomes (2017-2021)
*The number of "Other" animals euthanized has been normalized for year 2017
By similarly adjusting for the large number of "Other" euthanizations in 2017, the trend for animal
outcomes between 2017 and 2021 follows the intake trend, with a slight downward trend of
outcomes between 2017 and 2019, followed by a dramatic decrease in outcomes in years 2020 and
2021 due to the impacts of COVID-19.
2.3.3 Transfers In and Out of the Castaic Animal Care Center from Other DACC
Centers
DACC transfers animals between animal care centers as part of animal population management.
For example, if one shelter is at or exceeding capacity, animals may be transferred to another
shelter that has available space. For this assessment, Citygate was informed that the Castaic
Animal Care Center is often the recipient of transfers to alleviate crowding at other shelters in the
DACC system. The two following tables show transfer history for the past two years at the Castaic
Animal Care Center and indicate that more animals are transferred in than transferred out.
Table 17—Animal Transfers — In
Section 2—Animal Sheltering Statistics page 20
Packet Pg. 37
1.a
City of Santa Clarita, CA
Animal Care and Control Sheltering Services Assessment
Table 18—Animal Transfers — Out
2.3.4 Live Release Rates
One measurement that is commonly assessed in animal welfare is the shelter's Live Release Rate,
the simple definition of which is the percentage of live animals cared for by the shelter that have
a live outcome of adoption, owner redemption, transfer to an adoption partner or rescue group,
return to the community, or other outcome that is not euthanasia. For purposes of this discussion,
Citygate is utilizing the Annual LRR formula established by the Asilomar Accords (see also
Section 3). This LRR does not include owner/guardian-requested euthanasia (unhealthy and
untreatable) or dogs and cats that died or were lost in shelter care.
The formula used to derive the LRR is as follows:
Total Live Outcomes (includes adoption, return to owner, transfer to rescue)
+ Total Euthanized (does not include died in care or escaped)
= Total Outcomes
The LRR is Total Live Outcomes divided by Total Outcomes.
DACC does not accept animals for owner/guardian-requested euthanasia. Instead, DACC refers
the owner or guardian to resources who can provide the service for the owner. Depending on the
situation, the County will sometimes have resources available so that the service can be subsidized.
In regard to the City's LRR, Citygate focused exclusively on dogs and cats because these are the
species identified to be tracked by the Asilomar Accords. (The Asilomar Accords are discussed
further in Section 3, in the historical discussion of "No -Kill" policy.)
As shown in the following tables, Citygate calculated the LRR for dogs and cats coming into the
Castaic Animal Care Center for the past six years.
Section 2—Animal Sheltering Statistics page 21 9
Packet Pg. 38
1.a
City of Santa Clarita, CA
Animal Care and Control Sheltering Services Assessment
Table 19—Live Release Rates for Santa Clarita Does and Cats
Cats
Total Outcomes
2017
485
2018
598
2019
674
020
231
2021
168
2022
253
Live Outcomes
324
466
531
197
134
218
Euthanized
161
132
143
34
34
35
Cat LRR
1111 Dogs 1
Total Outcomes
66.8%
2017i
787
77.9%
771
78.8%
827
85.3%
422
79.8%
384
86.2%
481
Live Outcomes
677
708
771
391
340
429
Euthanized
110
63
56
31
44
52
Dog LRR
Cats . D..s
Total Outcomes
86.0%
2i17
1,272
91.8%
2018
1,369
93.2%
2019
1,501
92.7%
2020
653
88.6%
2021
552
89.2%
2022
734
Live Outcomes
1,001
1,174
1,302
588
474
647
Euthanized
271
195
199
65
78
87
Cat and Dog LRR
78.7%
85.6%
86.7%
90.0%
85.9%
88.1 %
Table 20—Summary of Doe and Cat Live Release Rates
The LRR for dogs and cats coming in from the City between 2017 and 2022 ranged from a low of
66.8 percent of cats in 2017 to a high of 93.2 percent of dogs in 2019. The LRR for cats is
consistently lower than the LRR for dogs. The overall LRR for both dogs and cats was trending
up from 2017 through 2020 before decreasing in 2021 and trending back up in 2022.
While the LRR is a statistic that is commonly measured, it is simply a percentage of animals that
left a shelter with a live outcome. It does not address the total number of animals that were saved
or the overall impact the shelter has, which varies based on the shelter's available resources, intake
policies, the types of animals coming in, and the challenges those animals face.
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2.4 WHY DOG AND CAT STATISTICS IN SHELTERS ARE SO DIFFERENT
As indicated by the statistics and trends, shelter dog and cat outcomes have notable differences.
There are several reasons why statistical trends differ by species. While factors can vary in
different communities, some of the main differences observed include (1) a higher number of dogs
reclaimed by their owners and (2) a higher percentage of cats being euthanized.
Part of the explanation begins with the very different ways many people view dogs and cats. Dogs
are often kept in a fenced yard and would clearly be missed by the owner if absent at feeding time.
Cats, on the other hand, are often seen as independent —allowed to be free -roaming,
indoor/outdoor animals —and many owners are not surprised if a cat is not present at feeding time,
or even for a few days.
Dogs are required to be licensed, and in most communities, there is a requirement that dogs be
leashed. These requirements are much less common for cats, and when the requirements exist,
most cat owners are unaware of them. While many dog owners have an identification tag or a
traceable rabies tag on their dog's collar, many cat owners would not consider having a collar on
their cat, and some cats refuse to wear a collar. Microchips are permanent forms of identification,
yet they are more commonly given to dogs than cats.
Animal control responds to complaints and concerns about free -roaming dogs and often impounds
dogs running at large. When dogs go missing, many owners contact local shelters in a timely
manner. Dogs that are identified by a license, identification tag, or microchip can be traced back
to the owner, and animal control officers often try to make a field redemption. In any case, owners
search shelters and redeem dogs at a much higher rate than the redemption rate for cats.
Conversely, looking for a missing cat at the local shelter is not a step taken by many owners or
caretakers. Free -roaming cats are generally not impounded, and policies on shelter impoundments
of cats have changed substantially in the past decade to include leaving healthy, unidentified free -
roaming cats in their current environment. This is because animal welfare professionals believe
that the cats are part of their neighborhood, may be owned, or are at least being cared for. If these
cats are taken to an animal shelter, it removes them from their home territories, and owners or
caregivers generally do not look for them for many days or weeks (if ever), contributing to the low
redemption rate. By the time the caregiver does come looking for the cat, it may have already
passed through the shelter.
The changes in policies related to cat intakes have changed and now focus on taking in cats or
kittens that are malnourished, orphaned, ill, injured, in danger, or require other assistance so they
can receive the care and protection they need at the animal shelter. This also means that the cat
populations entering shelters are more vulnerable and fragile, generally, than the dog populations.
Cats or kittens coming in have special needs and may be irremediably suffering or in need of
medical care beyond the shelter's resources. There is also an influx of kittens that come into animal
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shelters —often unweaned, neonatal, or sick —that are vulnerable, and even the shelter's best
efforts do not result in the kittens' survival. These challenges are contributing factors to the higher
percentage of cat and kitten euthanasia in shelters.
The more widespread acceptance and embrace of spaying and neutering dogs and cats has resulted
in progress toward lowering the number of litters of unwanted puppies and kittens being born. This
has especially been effective in reducing the number of puppies seen in animal shelters in recent
years. However, again we see differences between dogs and cats. Cats are efficient breeders, and
owners or caregivers may be unaware that a cat is pregnant until she gives birth. Additionally, feral
cats and community cats living in groups may produce litters if not being managed through some
type of program for population control. Many jurisdictions have implemented spay and neuter
programs for free -roaming cats to address overpopulation in "community cat" populations where
there are challenges identifying the owner of the cat(s) and many litters of kittens are adding to cat
overpopulation. DACC collaborates with organized community groups working with community
cat caretakers to ensure the population control, health, and welfare of free -roaming, unowned cats
in the communities in the program titled "Good Neighbor Cat Services." Services include spay or
neuter surgery, vaccination for rabies and FVRCP, flea treatment, ear tip, humane euthanasia, and
minor medical procedures.
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SECTION 3-EFFECT OF POLICIES ON CURRENT SHELTERING
3.1 OVERVIEW
Well -managed animal sheltering agencies operate under established Standard Operating
Procedures (SOPS) that are periodically reviewed, updated, and redistributed to staff or others
responsible for implementing them. DACC has extensive policies covering all aspects of
operations. Citygate reviewed DACC policies applicable to the scope of this assessment to
understand how the policies impact animal outcomes and the LRR for animals coming from within
the City.
3.2 A HISTORICAL DISCUSSION OF "NO -KILL" POLICY
The term "No -Kill" is a common term in the animal welfare industry. The term comes from a
movement that began in the 1980s and 90s and was formed in response to the alarming numbers
of healthy animals being euthanized in shelters across the United States. The "No -Kill" campaign
asked for a commitment from communities to take proper measures to save all healthy and
treatable pets from unnecessary euthanasia. While it may appear straightforward, the term is not
clear and often leads to misunderstandings and inappropriate labeling. A term that was meant to
unite communities in saving animal lives led to a divided animal welfare industry.
The current "standard" to be considered "No -Kill" is a shelter that has at least a 90 percent
placement rate for animals within its care. Why is this misleading?
1. The public does not understand that "No -Kill" does not equal no euthanasia.
Humane euthanasia still exists in "No -Kill" shelters and may be necessary for an
animal with a severe or untreatable illness or behavior issues that pose public safety
risks.
2. There is no organization or governing body that determines what "No -Kill" means.
The 90 percent placement standard is a rate that is generally agreed upon, but the
reporting and data to achieve that rate can be inconsistent across organizations
despite efforts to standardize.
3. "No -Kill" terminology has proven divisive by creating the perception of two kinds
of organizations, with one being considered inherently "good" and the other being
considered inherently "bad." The label of "kill shelter" is judgmental and does not
present the true picture of an agency's impact.
4. An organization's admission policies can impact its ability to reach "No -Kill"
status. Open -admission shelters commit to helping every animal that comes through
their doors, while limited -admission shelters are selective about the animals they
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will accept. By turning certain animals away, limited -admission organizations may
be able to maintain a higher placement percentage.
Further history on the "No -Kill" movement includes legislation, efforts to define categories of
animals entering shelters, and efforts to standardize statistics in animal sheltering. This history will
briefly be discussed in the following sub -sections.
3.2.1 The Hayden Bill (1999)
Animal activists were responsible for the promulgation of a significant piece of legislation that
became effective beginning in January of 1999. SB 1785 (referred to as the Hayden Bill) modified
various California Code sections related to the holding periods for impounded and surrendered
animals, and the care they are to receive, by:
♦ Stating that it is the policy of the state that "no adoptable animal should be
euthanized if it can be adopted into a suitable home."
♦ Requiring that stray animals be held six business days, not counting the day of
impoundment. (The prior requirement was 72 hours, not including the day of
impoundment.)
♦ Reducing the holding requirement to four business days, not counting the day of
impoundment, if the shelter: (a) is open until 7:00 pm one weekday, (b) is open one
weekend day, or (c) has fewer than three employees and is not open during all
regular weekday business hours and has established procedures for owners to
reclaim lost animals by appointment.
♦ Requiring that surrendered animals be held for two business days, not counting the
day of impoundment. This holding period increased to the same as for stray animals
previously noted effective July 1, 2001. The effective date of this provision was
modified by AB 2754 to become operative July 1, 2002. AB 2754 also modifies the
Hayden Bill to allow surrendered puppies and kittens to be made immediately
available for adoption. AB 2754 also requires that all animals be scanned for
microchips.
♦ Requiring that efforts be made to provide veterinary treatment for ill or injured
animals to make them suitable for adoption.
♦ Requiring specific records be kept on all animals impounded, surrendered, and/or
medically treated.
♦ Requiring that animals be turned over to non-profit rescue groups prior to the
animals being euthanized.
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♦ Requiring that reasonable efforts be made to reunite lost pets with their owners and
specifying that owners and finders of pets be provided with specific information.
♦ Providing an exception to this requirement for agencies in counties having
populations of less than 100,000.
The passing of this legislation had the effect of vastly improving care standards in animal shelters
in California. It also resulted in improved live release rates and increased awareness of issues and
challenges faced by the animal sheltering community. The legislation created an unfunded
mandate, making it possible for public shelters to submit claims to the State under SB 90
reimbursement process for legislatively mandated expenditures. While this legislation has been
suspended, it has had lasting positive effects for animals held in shelters in California due to
improved physical plants, increased holding capacity, beneficial impacts on policies and
procedures, and extending holding periods, which many agencies have retained.
3.2.2 The Asilomar Accords (2004)
In the summer of 2004, a group of animal welfare organization leaders participated in a meeting
at Asilomar in Pacific Grove, California, and developed and agreed upon the following definitions
to provide a standard way to categorize the dogs and cats who comprise the shelter population of
the various organizations each year. It was believed that standard definitions are a first step in
collecting and reporting reliable data on the numbers of at -risk animals in the nation's
communities. The document created as a result of this meeting is called the Asilomar Accords
(2004).
Healthy
The term "healthy" means and includes all dogs and cats eight weeks of age or older that [sic], at
or subsequent to the time the animal is taken into possession, have manifested no sign of a
behavioral or temperamental characteristic that could pose a health or safety risk or otherwise
make the animal unsuitable for placement as a pet, and have manifested no sign of disease, injury,
a congenital or hereditary condition that adversely affects the health of the animal or that is likely
to adversely affect the animal's health in the future.
Treatable
The term "treatable" means and includes all dogs and cats who are "rehabilitatable" and all dogs
and cats who are "manageable."
Rehabilitatable
The term "rehabilitatable" means and includes all dogs and cats who are not "healthy," but who
are likely to become "healthy" if given medical, foster, behavioral, or other care equivalent to the
care typically provided to pets by reasonable and caring pet guardians in the community.
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Manageable
The term "manageable" means and includes all dogs and cats who are not "healthy," and who are
not likely to become "healthy," regardless of the care provided; but who would likely maintain a
satisfactory quality of life, if given medical, foster, behavioral, or other care, including long-term
care equivalent to the care typically provided to pets by reasonable and caring guardians in the
community; provided, however, that the term "manageable" does not include any dog or cat who
is determined to pose a significant risk to human health or safety or to the health or safety of other
animals.
Unhealthy and Untreatable
The term "unhealthy and untreatable" means and includes all dogs and cats who, at or subsequent
to the time they are taken into possession,
1. Have a behavioral or temperamental characteristic that poses a health or safety risk
or otherwise makes the animal unsuitable for placement as a pet, and are not likely
to become "healthy" or "treatable" even if provided the care typically provided to
pets by reasonable and caring pet guardians in the community; or
2. Are suffering from a disease, injury, or congenital or hereditary condition that
adversely affects the animal's health or is likely to adversely affect the animal's
health in the future, and are not likely to become "healthy" or "treatable" even if
provided the care typically provided to pets by reasonable and caring pet guardians
in the community; or
3. Are under the age of eight weeks and are not likely to become "healthy" or
"treatable," even if provided the care typically provided to pets by reasonable and
caring pet guardians in the community.
3.2.3 Shelter Animals Count
In 2011, the organization Shelter Animals Count established a national database designed as a tool
for basic data collection from animal shelters in the United States. The database contains what
many organizations, including ASPCA, National Federation of Humane Societies, American
Humane, UC Davis, Maddie's Fund, PetSmart Charities, Humane Society of the United States,
and Shelter Animals Count have agreed are the minimum data points an organization should
gather. The purpose of the database is to facilitate the gathering of basic data and the merging of
data at the local, regional, or national level by providing a common framework which allows
agencies to benchmark their work with similar agencies around their region or the nation. Since
data gathering began in 2011, adoption numbers have more than quadrupled. As adoption became
more popular with the public, shelters were able to gain more funding, which helped build larger
facilities, hire more staff to care for and rehabilitate animals, and purchase better medical
.mil..
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equipment and care. As funding has grown, the numbers of healthy and treatable animals being
euthanized has markedly decreased.
3.2.4 Effects of "No -Kill" Policy on Outcomes
There have been many positive outcomes for animals in shelters as a result of the "No -Kill"
movement or concurrent with it. These have included a focus on exploring all available alternatives
prior to euthanasia, increased efforts for positive outcomes utilizing transfers to partner agencies
and rescue organizations, expansion of foster programs, social media outreach, mass adoption
events and "specials," promotion of microchipping, expanded medical care, and improved shelter
facilities.
However, there have also been serious problems created by the focus on "No -Kill" which have
resulted in many animal welfare professionals discrediting the movement. These include risky
adoption decisions that jeopardize public safety; operational decisions resulting in extreme
extensions of length of stay for shelter animals; the return of dangerous dogs into the community;
increased disease, overcrowding, and neglect in some shelters resulting from the facility exceeding
its capacity for care; shelters accepting and caring for unadoptable animals; and inhumane
conditions in shelters.
Population management in an animal shelter can be described as a balancing act between ensuring
the highest number of live outcomes for sheltered animals, safeguarding public safety, and
providing the most humane and comprehensive care for animals in the care of the animal shelter.
Many professional animal welfare organizations, both local and national, discuss "No Kill" on
their websites and in policy statements. Just a few examples include:
The Maddie's Fund website states:
Many animal control agencies and traditional shelters feel that no -kill makes them look
like villains. In deference to these concerns, Maddie's Fund no longer refers to individual
organizations that save all of their healthy and treatable animals as no -kill agencies;
instead we call them adoption guarantee agencies. However, we continue to strive for no -
kill communities and a no -kill nation. The bottom line is, the no -kill movement represents
a paradigm shift, a revolution, if you will, in the way we consider and treat companion
animals. No -kill shelters have chosen a path dierent from traditional shelters, refusing to
sacrifice an animal because society says there are too many. It's a commitment that directs
organizational policy. And when a minority movement like this gains momentum, those
who are put in the position of having to defend the status quo generally feel threatened, no
matter what terminology is used.4
4 https://www.maddiesfund.org
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The PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) Organization website states the
following:
The Deadly Consequences of NO KILL
It's appalling to contemplate, but when shelters give in to pressure to go "no -kill " before
they have overcome the breeding and selling of animals in their communities and before
establishing sufficient spaying and neutering services, the results are often far worse for
animals than a peaceful death through euthanasia. Here's what happens:
Animals are turned away at the shelter door, but they don't magically vanish. "No -kill"
shelters are usually at capacity, so they stop taking in animals, including those in
emergency or abusive situations. As just one example, someone turning three dogs in to an
open -admission shelter in Mississippi told a reporter, "It was either that or shoot them. "
Animals still die —but in pain. Instead of a peaceful death in a caring person 's arms,
animals die slowly and in agony on the streets, in backyards, under sheds, on chains, and
at the hands of abusive people. In San Antonio, Texas which is striving to be a "no -kill"
city the bodies of nearly 16, 000 dogs and nearly 12, 000 cats were scraped off the streets
and properties in just one year. One animal control officer termed it "euthanasia by
prosy. " It is also becoming common for shelters that boast high "save rates " to have a
sky-high rate of unassisted deaths in cages and kennels from illness or injuries.
Animals spend months or years in cages. Experts agree that after as little as two weeks in
a traditional shelter, animals can begin to deteriorate psychologically and become
withdrawn, depressed, anxious, or aggressive. Ifadopted, animals who have been confined
for extended periods are often repeatedly returned because of behavioral issues —a
traumatic yo-yo experience that makes them even less adoptable.
Animals are cast out and keep on reproducing. To increase "save " rates, some shelters
promote animal abandonment. One big sanctuary recently issued a news release urging
Good Samaritans to leave homeless kittens on the streets, rather than taking them to a
shelter. That's madness: Not only are abandoned kittens in danger of infection, disease,
starvation, and being hit by cars, attacked by dogs and wildlife, and abused by cruel
people, the surviving ones will also eventually go on to reproduce, resulting in even more
homeless animals.
Animals are handed over to abusers and hoarders. When numbers become the priority,
animals are no longer viewed as individuals deserving of consideration and respect but
instead as inventory that must be moved, causing shelters to toss aside even basic
safeguards. Homeless animals are increasingly beingfound tortured and killed by adopters
who weren't screened or, even more commonly, caged in hoarders' filthy basements,
garages, sheds, and barns. Every day, headlines appear about raids on self -described
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"rescuers" and the animals both sick and dead who were removed from the cruel and
disgusting conditions in the homes of the "rescuers. " When one hoarding facility
masquerading as a "rescue " in San Jose, California, caught fire, nearly 100 cats burned
to death inside carriers, unable to flee while the plastic melted down on top of them.5
The ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) website contains this
statement:
The ASPCA strongly supports "no kill" community coalitions (as opposed to a single
organization within a community) that are committed to reducing the number of cats and
dogs in that community who are at risk of becoming lost, abandoned or relinquished to
shelters. Toward that end, the ASPCA supports efforts to maximize accessible and
affordable spay/neuter services; practice TNR of feral cats; promote the adoption of
homeless animals; educate potential guardians on pet selection, the use of microchips and
visible ID tags; and provide ongoing expert training and behavior assistance to guardians
so that they may live successfully with their companion animals.6
The Pasadena Humane Society (California) has the following statements on its website:
ARE YOUA NO KILL SHELTER?
Pasadena Humane is a Socially Conscious Animal Shelter. We accept all animals
regardless ofage, breed, health or temperamentfrom within our 11 animal control service
areas. While we technically meet the no -kill threshold of saving more than 90% of pets
entering our shelter, we choose not to use the no -kill terminology.
WHY DON'T YO U USE NO KILL TERMINOLOGY?
Pasadena Humane adopted the Socially Conscious Animal Sheltering model because we
believe it offers the most holistic approach to sheltering. No -kill has been used as a
marketing tool and rallying cry, but it does not reflect the responsibility animal welfare
organizations like Pasadena Humane have to the animals in our care and to keeping our
communities safe.
While no -kill has gained in popularity over the years, it is often misunderstood. No -kill
does not mean no euthanasia. In fact, most no -kill shelters strive to attain a save rate of
90%. What that means in practice is that even at no -kill shelters, 10% of animals may be
euthanized for any reason and the organization would still be considered no -kill. While
reaching a 90% save rate may be attainable for some communities, it may not be realistic
for others based on the animals coming into that shelter. For example, a shelter that admits
s http://www.PETA.org
6 hLtp://www.ASPCA.org
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a large percentage of very ill or unhealthy animals may not reach a 90% save rate even if
they place all adoptable animals.
The Larimer Humane Society (Colorado) has this statement on its website:
You may have heard the terms like `open admission' and `no -kill' in references to shelter
or rescue models. In most cases, open -admission shelters accept all animals in need of
shelter whether as a result of neglect, abandonment, abuse, or simply an individual's
inability to maintain ownership of their pet. Open admission shelters do not turn away
animals based upon their breed type, those who may be injured, ill, very old, or those that
have temperament or aggression problems.
Organizations that follow the no -kill model, along with limited admission and adoption
guarantee models, may choose to restrict the types of animals they take based on the
animals' viability for adoption, the number of animals currently in the organization's care,
and/or the discretionary criteria. These organizations may decide not to take in elderly,
very ill, aggressive, seriously injured animals, or a breed type that may be considered too
dangerous, costly to care for, or challenging to adopt. These organizations may prioritize
certain criteria as well, such as breed -specific rescues, or rescues specifically for elderly
animals.
Open -admission shelters are the place for any animal in need ofshelter, medical attention,
and/or protection. As a result, open -admission shelters sometimes face the need to
humanely euthanize animals in their care. At Larimer Humane Society, euthanasia is
carried out only in specific situations. It is sometimes the most compassionate act in order
to end an animal's suffering resultant from an insurmountable injury or illness.
Additionally, because no animal is turned away, we sometimes see animals who are unsafe
either to people or other pets and who cannot be responsibly placed for adoption. While
behavior intervention efforts are part of our day-to-day protocol, and we work closely with
partner agencies to exercise other options, not every animal can be rehabilitated. Dogs
and cats at Larimer Humane Society are never euthanized for reasons involving the length
of time they have been in our care, or in response to the shelter population. Animals will
remain in our adoption center as long as it takes to find them a loving home, provided their
health and temperament remain positive.
There are many more examples of this type of messaging on websites and in press releases of
public and private animal welfare agencies and ranging from large national organizations to small
private agencies.
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3.3 SOCIALLY CONSCIOUS ANIMAL SHELTERING POLICY
3.3.1 What is Socially Conscious Animal Sheltering?
Socially Conscious Sheltering is a compassionate, transparent, and thoughtful model outlining
how animal shelters and rescues can best support vulnerable animals in their care and in their
community. Socially Conscious Sheltering is a shared set of beliefs, defined by a framework of
"tenets," that help ensure the best results for pets in shelters and rescues.
3.3.2 How did the Socially Conscious Sheltering Movement Begin?
The movement began because shelter leaders recognized the need to create a shared set of values
to guide organizations —values that could be communicated easily and that would share the
responsibility for animal welfare with the entire community. Four large animal shelters in
Colorado came together to discuss their animal welfare beliefs, including shelter practices. Out of
that conversation came the Socially Conscious Sheltering model.
The model was then shared with shelter Chief Executive Officers from across the United States
for their feedback, each shelter with different communities, intake policies, and levels of
community engagement. The insight was incorporated into the fundamental goals of Socially
Conscious Sheltering, and a website, scsheltering.org, was created.
Socially Conscious Sheltering is being embraced by communities across the United States, and it
is also being considered in Australia. Additionally, the Association for the Advancement of Animal
Welfare will be shepherding Socially Conscious Sheltering as a national initiative. This movement
will be most effective when it is owned by the entire animal welfare community. Hundreds of
communities are going through the process of engaging their stakeholders to officially join the
movement. 7
3.3.3 DACC Adopted Socially Conscious Animal Sheltering in 2019
In 2019, DACC adopted the philosophy of "Socially Conscious Animal Sheltering." According to
DACC, Socially Conscious Animal Sheltering strives to create the best outcomes for all animals
by treating them respectfully and alleviating their suffering. Fundamental goals of Socially
Conscious Animal Sheltering, as stated and adopted by DACC, are provided to:
♦ Ensure every unwanted or homeless pet has a safe place to go for shelter and
care. DACC care centers will not turn away animals in need of assistance.
♦ Place every healthy and safe animal. DACC will not offer for adoption animals
that are irremediably suffering or dangerous to public safety.
http://www.scsheltering.org
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♦ Assess the medical and behavioral needs of homeless animals and ensure these
needs are thoughtfully addressed. DACC, through its medical team and its animal
behavior and enrichment team, strives to provide a holistic approach to ensuring
each animal's needs are properly addressed.
♦ Align DACC policy with the needs of the community. DACC recognizes its
responsibility to the public trust, and ensures its programs and policies reflect and
support this obligation.
♦ Alleviate suffering and make appropriate euthanasia decisions. DACC often
accepts animals that are irremediably suffering and cannot live with severe,
unremitting pain or other serious health challenges. In these situations, it is most
humane to relieve an animal's suffering with compassionate euthanasia.
♦ Consider the health and wellness of animals for each community when
transferring animals. DACC participates in many animal transport programs
where animals are taken from DACC's care centers to areas of the country that are
experiencing a shortage of shelter animals. These win -win programs save
thousands of animal lives each year. However, it is also important that animals
transported through these programs do not suffer from physical or behavioral
defects that could endanger animals or people in their new communities.
♦ Enhance the human -animal bond through thoughtful placements and
postadoption support. DACC works with potential adopters to ensure the animals
they select are suitable matches for their lifestyles, sophistication in animal care
and handling, and other factors to make certain the placement is successful. DACC
provides postadoption support to adopters to ensure the placement thrives.
♦ Foster a culture of transparency, ethical decision -making, mutual respect,
continual learning, and collaboration. DACC remains committed to upholding
the highest ethical standards in meeting its mission of protecting people and
animals.
In a memorandum to the Board of Supervisors, the DACC director stated:
"As I have advised your offices in the past, the term `No -Kill " in the field of animal welfare
has created significant problems for animals and the community. The grossly extended
length of stay for animals in the shelters, shelters' willingness to accept unadoptable
animals into their care, risky adoption decisions and the return ofdangerous dogs into the
community, and increased disease and neglect of animals in the facilities are all well -
documented results of No -Kill practices. The No -Kill ' philosophy has been discredited
among animal welfare professionals across the nation due to countless examples offailed
attempts to implement its operational practices. For these reasons, Department of Animal
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Care and Control (DACC) did not embrace the No -Kill ' philosophy and its harmful
operational practices. Instead, DACC used many innovative solutions to achieve a high
live release rate of animals while serving the community needs. As part of its process of
continuous improvement, DACC is now adopting a new and more responsible philosophy
that has emerged to ensure safe and humane results for animals and people. This
philosophy is called `Socially Conscious Animal Sheltering. "'
Socially Conscious Animal Sheltering has had wide adoption by animal welfare organizations
since its introduction. Based on the reasons cited above, DACC does not endorse "No -Kill" or use
the term in reference to its operations.
The concept of Socially Conscious Animal Sheltering and a Socially Conscious Animal
Community has been embraced formally and informally by many organizations across the United
States. As stated above, the endorsement by the Association for the Advancement of Animal
Welfare encourages its adoption by both public and private animal sheltering entities. The website
w)Vw.scsheltering.org shows a map of organizations in the United States that have formally signed
on as partners.
3.4 COMMUNITY CATS POLICY
DACC has in place a Community Cats program that adopted nationally recognized best practices
regarding the admission of cats. The program was formulated in consultation with veterinarians
that specialize in animal shelter medicine at the UC Davis Koret Shelter medicine program, as well
as leading animal welfare organizations around the country. The following is quoted from the
DACC website:
At DACC, healthy cats with no signs of illness or injury and without owner identification
are encouraged to be kept in place where they were found because they are thriving in
their current environment. Many free -roaming cats have a human family or caregiver and
vary their time between the home and outdoors. Other times, a home or group of homes is
providing food and water to unowned neighborhood cats. These cats have established
themselves as part of their neighborhood, are being cared for, and do not need care center
assistance.
Bringing these cats to a care center removes them from their home territories, and
caregivers generally do not look -for them at care centers for many days or weeks, if ever,
contributing to the low redemption rate. Deferring healthy stray cats provides better
options for them to remain in their home or group of homes that care for them and where
they are thriving. Any cats or kittens that are malnourished, ill, injured, in danger, or
require other assistance are welcomed at DACC so they can receive the care and
protection they need.
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Partnering with the community is key to addressing concerns about outdoor cats and we
have increased our resources to help support community members and neighborhood cats.
We offer cat deterrents to residents so they may discourage cats from interfering with the
residents' ability to enjoy their homes. Our finder foster program for underage kittens
found without a mother provides free milk replacer and other resources so community
volunteers can raise unweaned kittens until they are old enough for adoption.
Spaying and neutering cats is the key to reducing the population of unwanted, ill, and
homeless cats. DACC provides the Good Neighbor Cat Spay and Neuter program, where
we provide low-cost spay/neuter surgeries for cats at six of our animal care centers.
Residents may bring in cats to be sterilized to prevent the birth of unwanted kittens. All
these approaches chip away at the problems we see for outdoor cats and can, over time,
ameliorate many of the concerns.
DACC takes a multi prong approach to the management of cats within the communities it
serves. Having an educational approach and resources to provide spay and neuter and
vaccinations, prior to returning healthy "community cats " to the location where they came
from is considered a current best practice, reduces euthanasia, and provides a life-saving
measure for cats that would not thrive in an animal shelter environment.
This type of approach is endorsed by NACA (National Animal Control Association) and its
position statement on community cats can be found at the NACA website.8
3.5 POLICIES ON EUTHANASIA
DACC policies on euthanasia include the policy that no adoptable or treatable animal should be
euthanized, including definitions of "adoptable," "treatable," and "irremediable suffering." DACC
has extensive and detailed policies on the decision -making process and procedures which include
many safeguards to ensure the wrong animal does not get euthanized. The policies specify who
can euthanize an animal and define how to verify the correct animal identity (including forms
when needed). The policies also include guidelines for veterinary authorization for euthanasia by
a department veterinarian and clear direction on not euthanizing an animal during its required
holding time. Euthanasia is performed by lethal injection and includes tranquilization and sedation
when necessary. Persons authorized to euthanize meet California requirements for certification to
perform euthanasia and the legally required record keeping is fully described in the policies.
DACC has a zero -tolerance policy for improper euthanasia or negligent animal abuse. The policies
follow current best practices for euthanasia in animal shelters.
8 https://www.nacanet.org/animal-control-intake-of-free-roaming-cats/
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3.6 FOSTER AND VOLUNTEER PROGRAMS
DACC has a Foster Program with clear policies and extensive resources for the fostering of
underage kittens and puppies. The Foster Program is active at each of its seven animal care centers.
Volunteers interested in fostering animals receive special training and support. The policies for
fostering are extensive and include such topics as:
♦ Designating animals for foster to increase the animals' adoptability
♦ Qualifications for persons interested in fostering
♦ Medical care procedures for foster animals
♦ Preparation for an animal designated for foster care
♦ Record -keeping procedures
♦ How to handle emergencies with foster animals
♦ Adoption guidelines
♦ Extensive training manuals for the fostering of kittens and puppies
♦ Recent implementation of a virtual training program for foster caretakers
♦ Special "Finder Foster" protocol/procedures for persons finding an animal.
The Castaic Animal Care Center has approximately 40 volunteers and 46 foster care providers.
Each quarter, the Center averages about 1,000 volunteer hours per month. The Center hosts
volunteer orientations quarterly. For the orientation held in November of 2022, DACC reported:
♦ A total of 89 people were invited
♦ 30 slots open for the orientation
♦ 27 people registered
♦ 12 showed up for orientation
♦ Training will start on November 12
The Winter Quarter Volunteer Orientation was held on February 25, 2023. There were 12 attendees
and training has begun for the new volunteers.
This information is included to show the typical volunteer recruitment response seen in animal
welfare organizations. Shelters devote resources to recruit and retain volunteers. Active
management of foster and volunteer programs is considered to be a best practice in animal welfare.
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3.7 MANAGED INTAKE POLICIES
Managed Intake was adopted by DACC as part of its implementation of the animal sheltering
model known as Socially Conscious Animal Sheltering. One purpose of Managed Intake is to
identify alternative options for stray and unwanted animals entering shelters and provide solutions
to the problems that otherwise would bring these animals to the shelter. Managed Intake programs
allow agencies to manage and reduce the flow of both owned pets and homeless animals into their
care. By reducing the intake of animals from the community, an agency is better able to provide
individual care and attention to each animal in its care.
DACC describes community engagement as the key to successfully employing Managed Intake.
It describes its approach as providing the community the appropriate training and resources to
allow them to retain their pet or help a lost pet find its way home. It also describes the engagement
of volunteers and community partners as key components to a successful Managed Intake approach
due to the vast human and material resources they can bring to fostering, networking, facilitating
adoptions, or solving problems to allow pets to stay with their owners.
3.7.1 DACC Managed Intake for Owned Pets
When an owner considers relinquishing a pet, DACC follows these steps.
♦ Recommend and offer resources such as training and behavior advice, food and
supplies, or support with other solutions to help keep the pet in the home.
♦ Discuss concerns such as medical care costs and housing issues and refer them to
resources that will allow them to reconsider surrendering their pets.
♦ For owners frustrated with behavioral problems or lacking the resources to fix
fencing or other one-time needs, DACC offers suggestions and assistance for
resolving these issues.
♦ If a pet owner is still unable or unwilling to keep their pet, DACC provides advice
to owners about how to rehome their pets themselves and avoid having to surrender
their pets to an animal care center.
♦ If the owner is unable to rehome their pet on their own, DACC will accept it and
seek the best possible outcome for that animal.
♦ Managed Intake at DACC also assists pet owners experiencing homelessness or
other serious, temporary personal situations such as severe illness or domestic
violence by referring pet owners in need to resources for pet -friendly housing,
homelessness services, free veterinary treatment, or free temporary pet boarding.
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3.7.2 DACC Managed Intake for Stray Animals
Found Pets
When a member of the public contacts DACC about a found pet, DACC follows these steps.
♦ Encourage people who have found lost pets to first attempt reuniting the pets with
their families by having the pets scanned for microchips to identify owner contact
information, using neighborhood and social media apps to publicize found pets, and
posting fliers in the neighborhood.
♦ Advise on effective pet reunification strategies, providing templates for flyers to
post in neighborhoods, and offer other suggestions to engage the neighborhood and
community.
♦ When finders are not successful, or are unable to engage in these activities, DACC
accepts the animals to ensure the safety of both animals and the public.
Community Cats
♦ Healthy, free -roaming cats are generally deferred from impoundment because they
are thriving in their current environment.
♦ Free -roaming tame cats may have a family and vary their time between the home
and outdoors.
♦ Often a home or group of homes is providing food and water to unowned
neighborhood cats.
The return -to -owner rate for cats brought to shelters is less than five percent. This is true for DACC
countywide and is also a national trend. Prior to Managed Intake at DACC, approximately 50
percent of impounded cats were euthanized Countywide. That number has dropped dramatically
because healthy, free -roaming cats are allowed to remain where they live.
Found Kittens Safety Net
The "Got Kittens" program is thus described by DACC:
DACC addresses the seasonal influx of kittens by educating the public about identifying
whether kittens are truly abandoned by their mother and in need of immediate assistance,
so that more kittens can remain with their mothers during the critical nursing stage until
weaned. This approach is healthier for kittens and improves their chance to later be
successfully adopted. If the kittens have actually been abandoned by their mother, DACC
provides education and fostering supplies to community members who enjoy caring for
them until they are old enough for adoption through DACC or other resources. Underage
kittens impounded without their mothers are in fact the most common reason for animal
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euthanasia, and DACC is preventing the unnecessary impoundment ofkittens by educating
the community and expanding its volunteer foster program.
Any cats or kittens that are malnourished, ill, injured, or require assistance are welcomed
at DACC so they can receive the care they need. DACC is also exploring opportunities to
expand low-cost spay/neuter services for cats to prevent the birth of unwanted kittens.
3.8 APPOINTMENT -BASED SERVICES
DACC has implemented appointment -only services to eliminate long, in -person customer waiting
lines and be better prepared to individualize the provision of resources and the outcome plan for
each animal. Appointments are conducted with a case management approach, emphasizing the
individual human -animal bond. Preliminary phone interviews are conducted prior to in -person
services and can even prevent the need to come to an animal care center. Phone interviews also
prepare visitors to ensure proper physical distancing requirements are maintained when in -person
services are required.
3.8.1 "Love at First Sight"
Following study and analysis of the impacts of COVID-19, DACC launched an enhanced adoption
program titled "Love at First Sight." The stated purpose of the program is to improve the adoption
experience for customers, increase adoption rates, decrease animals' length of stay, and increase
efficient use of staff time. Members of the public interested in adoption can self -schedule
appointments to view all available animals and adopt on a first -come, first -served basis. The
program eliminated waiting lists and opened the kennels for opportunities for the public to make
that "love at first sight connection with a new furry family member."
3.8.2 Availability of Services for Owned Animals
DACC offers vaccinations and microchips by appointment at its animal care centers. DACC also
has a number of partnerships in place to promote the spaying and neutering of owned pets. These
include:
♦ A partnership for low-cost spay and neuter surgeries with a veterinarian in Santa.
Clarita through a voucher program
♦ Inclusion in the SPAY4LA program, which has mobile clinics
♦ A spay/neuter voucher program.
DACC also has a couple of safety net programs geared toward specific challenges faced by some
pet owners. There is specific funding available to assist in the care of pets owned by homeless
individuals with temporary situations preventing them from being able to care for their animal(s).
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A second program is available to victims of domestic abuse in need of assistance caring for their
animal(s).
3.9 ADOPTION PROMOTIONS
Citygate reviewed the adoption specials that DACC promoted Countywide in 2022. There have
been promotions of adoption discounts or fully waived fees every month. Examples include:
♦ Fees waived for cats and dogs in care for 60 days or longer
♦ Adopt a Shelter Dog — fees waived October 24 through October 31
♦ Clear the Shelters (month of August) — cat adoption fees waived; dog adoptions
$20
♦ Adoptober — cat adoptions $13.
Additionally, the Castaic Animal Care Center participates annually in the Subaru Adoption Event.
This is an event sponsored by the ASPCA where animals from Castaic, Lancaster, and Palmdale
Animal Care Centers are brought to a local Subaru dealership to be adopted.
3.10 OUTREACH THROUGH MEDIA
DACC regularly issues press releases to communicate policy changes, announce adoption
promotions, advise the public on accomplishments of the Department, and address community
concerns.
The DACC website is comprehensive, providing extensive information about its services and fees,
animal statistics, procedures, animal care centers, staff, adoption process, how to make a request
for service, animal licensing, laws and enforcement, adoptable animals, what to do if your pet is
lost, and news releases.
The use of social media has become a vital tool in animal welfare. Competition for the public's
attention has led to creative messaging from shelters seeking homes for pets, volunteers, or foster
caregivers. Many shelters have had success utilizing social media to reach a broader audience.
DACC utilizes social media to highlight special events, make the public aware of urgent animals
needing adoption, and general requests for assistance from the public when the shelter is full.
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SECTION 4-SHELTER NEEDS DISCUSSION
4.1 CAPACITY FOR CARE AT THE CASTAIC ANIMAL CARE CENTER
DACC provided a summary of the current animal capacity at the Castaic Animal Care Center.
Table 21—Castaic Animal Care Center — Animal Capacity (2022)
AnimalType
Cats
Max Animals Housed
56
Dogs
51
Horses
8
Small Livestock
1 (pen)
Other
1 (chicken coop)
1 (reptile enclosure)
Dogs and cats are separated by species. Cats and small pocket pets are housed in a building with
centralized climate control systems. Dogs are kept in kennel runs which have access indoors and
outdoors. The inside of the dog area is kept cool by swamp coolers, fans, and ice whenever needed;
the outside is ambient air cooled by misters whenever needed.
Livestock stalls are outdoor stalls with shade covers. One stall has access to an indoor barn. There
are a variety of aquariums and terrariums for smaller and exotic animals with heating sources if
they are needed. There is an enclosure for tortoises and one for aquatic turtles which are exposed
to ambient air. The chicken coop is exposed to ambient air and has an enclosure as well.
4.1.1 Determining Animal Capacity in Animal Shelters
The method used to determine animal enclosure capacity is based on two factors: the average
animal intake per day, and the targeted length of stay for each animal. To determine the needed
enclosure capacity, the formula is to multiply the average animal intake per day by the targeted
length of stay.
To determine the capacity requirements for dogs and cats at the Castaic Animal Care Center,
Citygate used the numbers for all intakes, not just the animals coming into care from the City. This
provides clarifying information on the capacity needed to care for all dogs and cats coming in each
year. Citygate analyzed the animal intake and length -of -stay data for all dog and cat intakes
averaged from 2017 through 2019. 2020 through 2022 were omitted due to the marked decrease
in intakes related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The methodology for calculating the number of enclosures needed is shown in the following table.
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Table 22—Calculations for Necessary Enclosures for Does and Cats
As shown previously, the capacity of 51 spaces for dogs and 56 spaces for cats at the Center
exceeds the calculated holding capacity needs. Based on historical statistics from the past five
years, the Center has adequate animal capacity.
As described earlier, Citygate is also aware that the Center has foster volunteers and also transfers
animals out to adoption partners and rescue groups, both of which help population management.
The Center accepts transfers in to help prevent overcrowding at some of the County's other animal
care centers. This occurs fairly frequently and would not be possible if the center did not have
adequate capacity. In addition, although less frequently, the Center transfers animals to other
shelters in the DACC system. The purpose of transfers out to other DACC centers could include
reducing crowding, provision of specialized medical or behavioral care, local interest in adoption
of the specific type or breed of animal being transferred, or release to a rescue or adoption partner.
The Center is also utilized for disaster response and as an evacuation site during emergencies. It
has frequently been designated for emergency sheltering operations.
4.2 PHYSICAL PLANT
The Castaic Animal Care Center is an older facility. The site is approximately five acres in size.
The most recent significant renovation was a new clinic and modular office built in 2015. The
following is a list of recent capital projects and renovations at the Center, which was provided to
Citygate by DACC.
♦ Replacement of asphalt with concrete around the kennel building — 2013
♦ Construction of a new Spay and Neuter Clinic and modular office building — 2015
♦ New Care Center Way finding signage — 2019
♦ Electrical panel replacement/upgrade — 2021
♦ New kennel epoxy system in cages — 2021
♦ New epoxy on floor in cat room — 2021
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♦ New concrete floor in cooler — 2021
♦ New asphalt and lighting in parking lot — 2021
♦ New truck wash in wash rack — 2021
♦ New fencing around Emergency Horse Evacuation Area — 2021
♦ Replacement of commercial washing machine — 2021
♦ Replacement of the HVAC system in the Cat Building — 2021
♦ Installment of a "Catio" in the Cat Building — 2021
While the County does not currently have any future capital improvements scheduled for the
center, there may be some areas the City would like to consider partnering with DACC and/or
private donors/supporters to upgrade.
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SECTION 5-CURRENT ANIMAL ADVOCACY EFFORTS IN SANTA
CLARITA
5.1 LA COUNTYANIMAL CARE FOUNDATION
The Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation is a philanthropic or "Friends of type
organization in support of the DACC. Santa Clarita City Councilmember Laurene Weste currently
serves as a board member for the LA County Animal Care Foundation and is the liaison to the
Castaic Animal Care Center. The Foundation's Board of Directors serve in a voluntary capacity to
raise and distribute funds to support the animals served by the seven animal care centers in LA
County. Each board member is an independent voting member and receives no payment for their
services. The foundation aims to support DACC through fundraising for spay -and -neuter
programs, pet adoptions, public education, and animal welfare. The Foundation funds items and
services beyond the budget of DACC, often through grant funding and private donations. Some of
the current programs include:
♦ Care Vouchers that cover non -emergency veterinary services, dental care, medical
grooming, kenneling or boarding, compassionate euthanasia, and pet supplies
♦ Spay/Neuter Vouchers assistance program for pet owners in the unincorporated
County and specific cities, including Santa Clarita
♦ Good Neighbor Cat Services providing medical care for free -roaming, unowned
cats through community outreach
♦ Vet at the Park offering free medical wellness care to pet owners
♦ Pet Food Pantry
See also the brochure "Pets Are Family" in Appendix A of this report.
5.2 COMMUNITY CORNER SCVTV
SCVTV is the public education channel funded by the City of Santa Clarita. SCVTV's Community
Corner is hosted by Communications Manager Carrie Lujan. The show has highlighted various
animal topics, including:
♦ Renee Focht and Christine Sheriff from the Castaic Animal Care Center have been
featured in multiple episodes to introduce pets who are ready for adoption.
♦ Jill Dyche from Outta the Cage was featured in an episode and shared footage on
dogs that are ready for adoption.
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♦ The Gibbon Center was featured in an episode that shared information on the care
of gibbons and habitat preservation.
5.3 INFORMAL SOCIAL MEDIA
While the City does not currently lead any animal welfare social media groups, there are a few
informal groups in existence geared toward helping pet owners in Santa Clarita.
♦ Lost & Found Pets of SCV (public group on Facebook): This group is dedicated
to reuniting lost and found pets with their families from the Santa Clarita Valley.
Images of lost or found pets are posted on the page, giving each pet the attention
they need in order to help reunite them with their owners.
♦ Everything Pets in SCV (public group on Facebook): This group provides
education and outreach to help pets and their families with general pet information,
adoptions, rescues, and urgent pet news.
♦ Friends of the Castaic Shelter (public group on Facebook): This group is
dedicated to spotlighting pets available for adoption at the Castaic Animal Shelter.
♦ SCV Wildlife Alert (private group on Facebook): This group provides education
and outreach for residents that encounter injured wild animals.
5.4 LOCAL NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS
A few non -profits that assist and provide services for animals are in or near the City. Many also
provide education on pet ownership, including importance of spay/neutering. These include:
♦ Brittany Foundation' (based in Action, greater Los Angeles service area):
Rescues, rehabilitates, and provides safe shelter for homeless, abused, and
abandoned dogs, with a focus on older, handicapped, and less -popular breeds of
dogs.
♦ Deaf Dog Rescue of America10 (based in Santa Clarita, national service area):
Rescues, trains, and places deaf dogs of all breeds. Operates a shelter for deaf dogs.
♦ Furever Purr Rescue" (based in Santa Clarita): Network of volunteers operates a
foster -based cat/kitten rescue. Volunteer fosters take in homeless cats or cats from
shelters to foster them until they can be adopted.
9 http://www.brittMfoundationonline.or,-/
10 http://www.deafdo)4rescueofamerica.orv/
" http://www.furevep2tmTescue.org/
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♦ Golden Years Dog Sanctuary12 (based in Sylmar, greater Los Angeles service
area): Provides shelter for senior and at -risk dogs, intended to be a last, loving
home. Also operates a foster network for dogs and at -risk cats/kittens.
♦ Hank's Legacy Foundation13 (based in Santa Clarita): Network of volunteer -
fosters for dogs and cats.
♦ Mutt Match LA14 (based in Santa Clarita): Operates an all -breed, all -ages rescue
ranch in Santa Clarita, focusing on puppies, seniors, and special -needs cases. Dogs
that are not adoptable due to health or behavioral issues remain at the ranch.
♦ Outta the Cage" (based in Los Angeles, greater Los Angeles service area):
Partners with DACC to foster and train dogs that are difficult to place, including
seniors, special needs animals, and "dominant" breeds. Also leverage social media
to encourage adoptions.
♦ Save a Kitty Inc." (based in Santa Clarita): Currently operates a network of
volunteer -fosters for cats/kittens, but is in the process of building a physical shelter.
Provides education on TNR and a TNR program.
♦ Sunny Day Acres" (based in Agua Dulce, greater Los Angeles service area):
Provides a shelter facility for animals who were surrendered or cannot be adopted
to the general public, including dogs, cats, and farm animals. Provides general
training for adoptable dogs.
♦ Tails and Scales Animal Rescue18 (based in Santa Clarita): Operates a foster -
based rescue for many animals in need, including dogs, cats, snakes, lizards, and
bunnies.
♦ Valencia Trap -Neuter -Release Initiative19 (based in Santa Clarita): Network of
volunteers who provide cat rescue and adoption services.
12 hops:HgoldeMearsdogsanctuM.com/
13 https://hankslegacyfoundation.org/
14 https://www.muttmatchla.org
15 https://outtathecage.or
16 hLtps://www.saveakittyca.org/
"hLtps://www.sgmydUacres.or /
18 https://www.facebook.com/TailsandScales/
19 https://www.facebook.comNalenciaTNR/
WIN .
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There are also a number of non -profits with broader animal conservation and welfare missions,
including:
♦ The Gentle Barn20 (based in Santa Clarita): Their mission is to teach people
kindness and compassion to animals, each other, and the planet. Shelters animals,
including cows, horses, pigs, turkeys, chickens, sheep, and llamas.
♦ Gibbon Conservation Center21 (based in Santa Clarita): Their mission is to
promote the conservation, study, and care of gibbons through public education and
habitat preservation. Shelters gibbons, housing the rarest group of apes in the
Westem Hemisphere. The facilities provide observation and non-invasive research
opportunities for students and scientists.
♦ Placerita Canyon Nature Center22 (based in Santa Clarita): The Placerita Canyon
Nature Center aims to inspire a passion, awareness, and respect for the environment
and preserve and protect for future generations the history and ecosystem of
Placerita Canyon.
21 hops://www.gentlebam.org/
21 https://www.gibboncenter.org/
zz hqp://www.placerita.org
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SECTION 6-OPTIONS FOR CONSIDERATION BY THE CITY
6.1 OVERVIEW
The current contract with DACC is comprehensive, providing all mandates required by law and
going beyond mandated services and programs in many areas. However, there are ways to augment
the animal services provided to the City and its residents. This section will discuss some options
the City may want to consider.
6.2 CITY -SPONSORED EVENTS
The City could partner with DACC on a variety of different types of animal events, for example:
♦ Adoption promotions with high visibility that have been well -promoted could
increase adoptions, especially during the times of the year when the shelter is
experiencing high capacity (typically spring and summer).
♦ Low -fee (or no -fee) vaccine, microchipping, and licensing clinics held within the
City to assist in owner compliance with legal requirements and offer educational
and outreach opportunities. These clinics also provide owners with information on
pet care, affordable spay -and -neuter services, animal laws, and other information
that would promote responsible pet ownership.
♦ Inclusion in City -sponsored disaster preparedness fairs or exercises that would
highlight the importance of including pets in your plans and provide information
such as checklists or "go bags" to be prepared for both human and animal family
members in case of emergency.
♦ The City and DACC could collaborate on access to affordable or free spay and
neuter clinics for owned animals, specifically in the City.
♦ The City could also collaborate with DACC by inviting them to have a booth at
City events and include special activities. For example, DACC could attend the
annual Oktoberfest to host a booth with adoptable animals and organize Weiner
Dog Races for owned dogs, which are always very popular.
6.3 WEBSITE, SOCIAL MEDIA, AND OTHER COMMUNICATIONS
6.3.1 Website
The City currently has information on its website regarding animal control services, and a search
of "animal" or "dog license" quickly takes the reader to the page with information on the provision
of services by DACC at the Castaic Animal Care Center. While Animal Control is not a City
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Department, finding a way to make the services more visible on the website would expand the
partnership with the County and promote animal awareness. Adding information such as the
following would highlight the City's commitment to animal welfare:
♦ Directions to the shelter
♦ Hours
♦ Photographs of adoptable animals
♦ Information about volunteering and fostering.
6.3.2 Press Releases
Consider whether including press releases issued by the DACC could be included on the City's
press releases list. Most of the releases are general in nature and provide information that residents
who are concerned about animals and animal issues would find interesting.
6.3.3 Social Media
DACC is active in social media posts. Since the City does have active accounts across all the major
social media platforms (e.g., Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter), the City may want to
consider including local information distributed by DACC in its social media outreach. Content
specific to pet adoption or other DACC promotions, services available, upcoming events, or other
related topics promoting the care of animals could be featured.
6.3.4 Newsletter
Inclusion of an animal -related article in the City's monthly newsletter on a regular schedule, such
as quarterly. These articles could highlight information about the Castaic Animal Care Center,
such as services available, upcoming events at the Center or in the City, volunteering and fostering,
animal laws, adoptable animals, how to find lost pets, and the importance of licensing.
6.4 SPECIAL PROJECTS AND EXPANSION OF CITIZEN INVOLVEMENT
The City and DACC could partner on projects to resolve specific issues identified within the City
Examples could include:
6.4.1 Targeted Trap -Neuter -Release Programs in Areas of Cat Overpopulation
DACC and the Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation offer targeted trap -neuter -release
(TNR) programs in collaboration with organized community groups working with community cat
caretakers to ensure the population control, health and welfare of free -roaming, unowned cats in
the communities. Services include:
♦ Spay or neuter surgery
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♦ Vaccinations for rabies and FCVRP
♦ Flea treatment
♦ Ear tip
♦ Humane euthanasia
♦ Minor medical procedures
There are a number of models for community programs for cats. The UC Davis Koret Shelter
Medicine Program has information and webinars on its website.23 The national organization Alley
Cat Allies is a strong proponent of TNR programs and has extensive information on its website.24
By working with the Foundation and the DACC on targeted TNR programs, the City could build
on the successful partnerships that are already in place and better the welfare of community cats
throughout the City.
6.4.2 Promotion of Volunteering or Providing Foster Care
The City could actively promote citizen involvement at the Center by featuring volunteers or
providing information on the foster program through its social media and newsletter.
6.4.3 Community Service Projects for Civic and Youth Groups
The City could also promote or sponsor community service projects for civic or youth groups to
improve care and engage new partners.
6.5 PHYSICAL PLANT UPGRADES
While maintenance of County facilities is performed by the County, the City could partner with
the County and/or private donors for upgrades to the Castaic Animal Care Center that would
expand the facility or improve conditions for the animals. Some possibilities would include:
♦ Upgrading the climate control system in the dog holding area
♦ Expanding dog play areas
♦ Creating a separate isolation area for dogs
♦ Expansion of the adoptable cat habitat area
♦ Addition of designated areas for volunteers
23 https://www.sheltennedicine.coln/communiiy-cats-webinar-resources/
24 https://www.alleycat.org/our-work/trilp-neuter-return/
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Partnering on the purchase of a permanent generator that would help ensure the
facility maintains power during emergency sheltering operations.
By partnering with DACC and the LA County Animal Care Foundation the City would generate
synergy for capital projects to improve the quality of life for animals during their stay atthe Castaic
Animal Care Center.
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SECTION 7-FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
7.1 FINDINGS
The following are Citygate's findings related to this assessment of animal care and control
sheltering services for the City of Santa Clarita.
Finding #1: DACC consistently posts its statistics for all of its seven animal care centers on its
website.
Finding #2: The effects of COVID-19 caused reductions in animal intakes and led to changes
in animal sheltering practices.
Finding #3: The Castaic Animal Care Center has adequate capacity to serve the needs of the
cities of Santa Clarita, San Fernando, and the unincorporated portion of Los
Angeles County that the shelter is designated to serve.
Finding #4: The Live Release Rate for dogs and cats coming in from the City to the Castaic
Animal Care Center has improved over the last five years with the exception of
2021, when the rate dipped before trending back up in 2022.
Finding #5: The number of cat and dog intakes from the City decreased dramatically beginning
in 2020—most likely due to the COVID-19 pandemic —but intakes have begun to
increase again as of 2022.
Finding #6: The Castaic Animal Care Center transfers animal in from other DACC centers to
relieve crowding.
Finding #7: The trends for cat redemptions in the City follow the typically low numbers seen
by most animal control agencies.
Finding #8: The DACC has progressive policies and adheres to best practices for animal welfare
agencies.
Finding #9: The DACC has extensive and appropriate policies in place for the Foster Program,
the Volunteer Program, Managed Intake, Community Cats, and Animal Euthanasia
which directly impact the care and welfare of sheltered animals.
Finding #10: DACC does not provide the service of euthanasia for owned pets.
Finding #11: DACC does not have a policy on "No -Kill."
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Finding #12: DACC implemented the Socially Conscious Animal Sheltering philosophy in 2019.
Finding #13: Managed Intake policies have resulted in increasing positive outcomes for animals
by reducing the flow of both owned pets and homeless animals into care centers.
Alternatives to impoundment provide more resources and result in increased
positive outcomes for the animals that do have to be admitted to animal care centers.
Finding #14: DACC encourages that healthy cats with no signs of illness or injury, and without
owner identification, be kept in the place they were found because they are thriving
in their current environment. DACC does have resources for population control of
feral cats.
Finding #15: DACC utilizes adoption partners and rescue groups as a resource to increase its
Live Release Rate.
Finding 416: DACC has a number of programs in place to assist owners in need of services or
assistance with their pets.
Finding #17: In the event of a surge in intakes —such as a hoarding case or the need for
emergency evacuation of a large number of animals —the Center is able to utilize
other animal care centers under its management or enter into mutual aid agreements
with outside agencies if necessary.
Finding #18: The Castaic Animal Care Center is an older facility. The County has implemented
various upgrades, improvements, and renovations in recent years (2013-2021), and
the animal areas are climate controlled.
Finding #19: The Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation is a non-profit organization that
provides many benefits to the animals cared for by DACC as well as animals owned
by residents in the DACC service area.
Finding #20: There are local non -profits that collaborate with DACC to advocate for animals at
the Castaic Animal Care Center.
7.2 RECOMMENDATIONS
The following are Citygate's recommendations related to this assessment of animal care and
control sheltering services for the City of Santa Clarita.
Recommendation #1: The City should continue contracting with DACC for animal sheltering
in Santa Clarita. The current services and level of service selected by
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the City meet the current needs of the City's residents and represent an
economy of scale for the City.
Recommendation #2: The City should augment animal care and control services by
increasing its collaboration with DACC. A key focus area should be a
targeted TNR program for community cats.
Recommendation #3: Partner with DACC on City -sponsored events to increase adoptions,
expand awareness and access to services for owned pets, and provide
education and resources related to disaster preparedness.
Recommendation #4: Expand the City website to highlight the Castaic Animal Care Center
and its services to the residents of Santa Clarita.
Recommendation #5: Expand the City's media coverage to more broadly include DACC
Recommendation #6: Implement special projects in collaboration with DACC to increase
citizen involvement.
Recommendation #7: Examine the possibilities of partnering with the County and/or private
donors/supporters on physical plant upgrades to the Castaic Animal
Care Center.
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