The month of December 2013 Live Release Rate at the County Animal Shelter soared to 90 percent, capping off a year of improving statistics. This is quite an achievement considering a year ago, 83 percent – which is also very good – had been the highest monthly record.
This release rate data is comprised of animal adoptions, returns to owners, Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program and animals going to rescue organizations. This success is attributed to the County’s aggressive spay/neuter programs that reduces the animal population humanely; creative adoption promotions; strong volunteer contributions; and valuable partnerships with the City of Sacramento Animal Care Services, Sacramento SPCA, Happy Tails Pet Sanctuary, and numerous rescue organizations.
“Our life-saving efforts are really paying off and part of that is offering the community the opportunity to get involved. Whether it is through adoption, rescue, TNR, our Barn Cat program, donation, volunteering, or being a foster provider, we make it as simple as possible for the community to help save lives,” said Dave Dickinson, Director of Animal Care and Regulation.
Several spay/neuter programs are currently offered at the County Animal Shelter, with some targeting cats and specific dog breeds and breed mixes with waived and reduced co-pays as low as $10. Other creative adoption promotions include $5 Feline Fridays (1 year and older) and ongoing promotions where new pet owners can adopt a pet with a reduction in fees up to 50 percent or more. Each adoption includes spay/neuter, core vaccinations, microchip, 1-year license for Sacramento County residents, vet visit, ID tag and collar and a bag of starter food. Details of these programs and to view the shelter’s adoptable pets go to www.SacCountyShelter.net.
The County Animal Shelter is open Wednesday through Friday from 12:30 - 5:30 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from Noon–4:30 p.m. and is closed Monday and Tuesday and most holidays. The shelter is located at 3839 Bradshaw Road, one mile south of Highway 50.