Los Angeles, CA – Today, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a motion authored by Supervisor Hilda L. Solis and co-authored by Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath to proclaim the month of October as “Adopt a Shelter Dog Month” in Los Angeles County.

The dog population in Los Angeles County animal care centers has historically been at maximum capacity due to animal surrenders, abandonment, and backyard breeding. After the COVID-19 pandemic, even more owners are surrendering their pets due to financial hardships. Many urban washes, beach areas, and even some County parks have become dumping grounds for animals, with social media platforms rampant with postings of lost and found dogs. The overwhelming number of animals, although not a recent issue, highlights the need to educate residents on resources available to them – to increase owner retention and animal welfare laws.

“During Adopt a Shelter Dog Month, we celebrate the unconditional love and companionship that shelter dogs bring to our lives. Each adoption not only transforms a life but also enriches our community. To that end, I urge everyone to consider opening their hearts and homes to these deserving animals. Together, we can raise awareness to make sure all adoptable dogs in our shelters find their way into loving homes to residents that want to be pet owners.”

“This October, Los Angeles County and our dedicated Department of Animal Care and Control celebrate ‘Adopt a Shelter Dog Month’,” said Chair Lindsey P. Horvath. “We are eager to connect dedicated individuals and families to amazing dogs while providing public education about the importance of being a responsible animal guardian. In the Third District, we also look forward to hosting ‘Bark-Tober’ on Oct. 19 in El Cariso Park, as we celebrate dog adoptions all month long.”

With the approval of today’s motion, the County is directing the Department of Animal Care and Control to hold a community adoption event in every supervisorial district during the month of October, improve the photos of pets posted online,  provide a report back to the Board of Supervisors in 90 days on backyard breeding and outreach plans for resident pet owners, and establish a volunteer workforce or Youth at Work program, in collaboration with the Los Angeles County Department of Economic Opportunity, in addition to other directives.

For more information, read the full motion.