UPDATE: Riverside animal shelters are facing a critical crisis, with over 1,000 dogs across the shelter system and the San Jacinto Valley Animal Campus reaching a staggering 270% capacity. The Riverside County Department of Animal Services (RCDAS) has issued an urgent plea for the community to step up and help by adopting or fostering dogs as immediate action is required.
The department has set an ambitious goal to find 30 large dogs loving homes within the next 48 hours, aiming for completion by November 6. The dire situation has escalated to the point where some animals face the threat of euthanasia due to overcrowding. RCDAS highlights that operating at this critical overcapacity not only jeopardizes the health and safety of the animals but also poses risks to the staff working tirelessly to care for them.
“Operating in critical overcapacity puts animals at risk of sickness or injury and is not safe for pets or staff,”
said RCDAS Director Mary Martin. She emphasized the urgent need for the community to open their homes to help save lives, stating,
“We need to be ready to continue receiving animals that have nowhere else to go, and we are hoping the community is willing to open their homes now more than ever to save lives.”
All pets at RCDAS are available for adoption at no cost, which includes spay/neuter services, microchips, vaccinations, and an engraved ID tag. The organization is also calling for foster homes that can accommodate a dog for two weeks or more, particularly for larger breeds that are at higher risk due to the current situation. Supplies will be provided to foster families to ensure a smooth transition.
If you are interested in adopting or fostering, visit www.rcdas.org for more information. This is a critical moment where your involvement can make a significant difference in the lives of these vulnerable animals.
As the clock ticks down to the November 6 deadline, every second counts. The community’s response will be crucial in determining the fate of these dogs.
Share this urgent call to action and help spread the word to save lives today.
