STATEMENT: Barger on Motion to Support Palmdale Animal Care Center

Supervisor Kathryn Barger issued the following statement today after the Board of Supervisors unanimously approved her motion to expand animal care services in the Antelope Valley due to the growing number of dogs and other vulnerable animals sheltered at the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control’s Palmdale Animal Care Center:

“My motion aims to develop creative solutions so we can decrease euthanization rates at our County’s Palmdale Animal Care Center to ultimately save pets’ lives. It’s one of our smallest shelters, and it is being overwhelmed by the number of dogs and other animals that are strays or surrendered.

The Antelope Valley has unique needs, which also applies to its animal care needs. I believe in developing creative and grounded solutions to those challenges. My motion does that by tackling some of the root causes that are resulting in these higher numbers.

These are tough economic times, and many of my constituents are struggling with meeting animal care costs and can’t afford to spay and neuter their pets – or simply don’t know about the pet support programs available.  

I am pleased that the Department of Animal Care and Control has committed to taking action and will focus on the Antelope Valley, including providing regular spay and neuter clinics, until we see positive results and a measurable impact. 

I will track the Department’s progress carefully. I’m hopeful we can save the lives of the precious animals that offer us so much love and affection.”