The Lassen County Board of Supervisors is set to tackle a vital topic during today’s meeting: the future of community assistance at the Lassen County Animal Shelter. The board will discuss the potential incorporation of a county-run foster program and a more robust volunteer system to better serve the area’s displaced pets.
The discussion, listed as Agenda Item H2, comes after local advocate and shelter volunteer Katie Cuypers lobbied District 5 Supervisor Jason Ingram to bring these issues to the forefront of the county’s priorities.
A Call for Community Action
Currently, the shelter’s volunteer program is facilitated through a unique arrangement with a private business—SitSpot Canine Center in Johnstonville—utilizing the owner’s private insurance to bridge the gap. Cuypers is advocating for the program to be brought directly under the county’s insurance umbrella, a move she believes will pave the way for a formal, sustainable volunteer and foster network that can grow with the community’s needs.
“The goal of this meeting is to bring attention to the supervisors ways to help improve the shelter and give the animals a better chance of being adopted,” says Cuypers. “The main focus will be getting the county to start their own volunteer and foster program, adjust the hours to include weekends, and fundraising efforts to help alleviate budget constraints.”
How to Get Involved
For those who want to see these changes implemented, showing up in person is the most effective way to signal community demand. The meeting will be held this morning, February 24th, at the Supervisor’s Chambers located at 707 Nevada Street.
While the exact time for this specific discussion is not set, supporters are encouraged to arrive at the beginning of the meeting at 9:30 a.m. to ensure they don’t miss the item. If you wish to share your thoughts or ideas with the board, please be sure to fill out a speaker card immediately upon arrival.
“I am asking the public to please attend this meeting,” Cuypers added. “We need to make a show of people willing to volunteer and foster so the board knows there is a demand for this. Please bring your ideas forward, but be mindful of time. I am hopeful we will have a large turnout.”
Whether you are an animal advocate or simply someone who wants to see the shelter thrive, your presence at the chambers this Tuesday could make a significant difference for Lassen County’s animals.
