Animal Care Center SPUR 2024

The SF Animal Care and Control Team manages a department of 60 employees, operating an open-admission shelter receiving 8-10,000 animals yearly. As the pandemic slowed down, shelters across the country moved from a surge in adoptions to a backlog of large dogs who are very difficult to place. Recognizing this challenge the team shifted focus to prevent surrenders by supporting pet-owning families. By offering assistance with veterinary care, pet food, and waiving fees through partnerships, they helped keep pets in their original homes, saving both resources and animals from entering the shelter system. Through innovative approaches and strategic partnerships, the team successfully prevented surrenders and provided vital support to pet owners in need.