The Lassen County Animal Shelter has announced immediate changes to its adoption policies, citing ongoing challenges with local veterinary access and a commitment to reducing pet overpopulation.
According to a release from the shelter, the facility will no longer adopt out unaltered puppies and kittens directly to the public. Instead, these young animals will be transferred to approved rescue partners. These partners will ensure the animals receive necessary medical care, including spay and neuter procedures, before they are placed in permanent homes.
The policy change also extends to unaltered adult dogs. However, shelter officials noted they have had more success securing local spay and neuter appointments for adult animals and will continue to work on facilitating those procedures prior to adoption whenever possible.
The decision comes after a review of community feedback and shelter data, specifically regarding the lack of timely and affordable spay/neuter services in the Susanville area.
“This decision was not made lightly,” the shelter stated in the release. “It reflects our responsibility to operate within California law and to reduce the risk of contributing to pet overpopulation in our community.”
Shelter management indicated that they would revisit the decision in the near future as they continue to evaluate local resources, legal compliance and community access to veterinary services.
For more information regarding the new policy or to learn more about animals currently available for adoption, contact the Lassen County Animal Shelter at 1.530.257.9200.
