UPDATE: Riverside County animal shelters are in a state of crisis, with over 1,000 dogs currently in the system and the San Jacinto Valley Animal Campus exceeding 270% capacity. The Riverside County Department of Animal Services (RCDAS) is urgently calling for immediate foster and adoption assistance as the situation escalates.
The department has set an ambitious goal: to find homes for 30 large dogs within the next 48 hours, aiming for completion by November 6. With shelter overcrowding posing a severe risk to animal health and safety, officials stress that immediate action is critical to prevent potential euthanasia due to lack of space and care.
“Operating in critical overcapacity puts animals at risk of sickness or injury and is not safe for pets or staff,” stated RCDAS Director Mary Martin. “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 animals available for adoption come at no cost and include essential services such as spay/neuter, microchipping, vaccinations, and engraved ID tags. The RCDAS is also seeking foster homes able to accommodate dogs for a minimum of two weeks, especially larger breeds, to help alleviate the overwhelming demand on the shelter.
Fosters will receive necessary supplies from RCDAS, ensuring they can provide proper care. Interested individuals can find more information by visiting www.rcdas.org.
This urgent plea highlights the pressing need for community involvement as Riverside’s shelters struggle to manage the influx of animals. The emotional impact is profound, with countless lives hanging in the balance. Your action could make a difference today—consider adopting or fostering a dog in need.
As the situation develops, residents are encouraged to stay informed and participate in local efforts to support the shelters. With every adoption and foster home, the chance of saving a life increases.
Share this urgent call for help with your community—together, we can make a difference for these vulnerable animals.
