LOS ANGELES, Calif. — The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors today approved a motion authored by Chair Pro Tem and First District Supervisor Hilda L. Solis and co-authored by Chair Kathryn Barger proclaiming October as “Adopt a Shelter Dog Month” in Los Angeles County. This year’s proclamation also addresses the growing impact of immigration enforcement on the County’s animal shelter system.  

“The County of Los Angeles is proud to proclaim October as ‘Adopt a Shelter Dog Month,’ and we remain committed to raising awareness and uplifting adoption events,” said Chair Pro Tem Solis. “At a time when our communities are still recovering from the January wildfires and facing the effects of ongoing immigration raids, it is clearer than ever that when we uplift animals, we uplift people. This motion ensures that we extend compassion to all beings while investing in the resilience of our communities.” 

Los Angeles County continues to face a persistent animal care crisis, marked by high shelter intake volumes and limited capacity. These challenges are often driven by broader social and environmental issues, including housing insecurity, natural disasters, climate emergencies and immigration enforcement. 

In June 2025, following the January wildfires, widespread immigration raids in Los Angeles County led to an increase in animals arriving at County animal care centers. Since then, the Department of Animal Care and Control has tracked pets that were surrendered or found stray because their owners were deported. As of September, at least 40 pets have been confirmed as surrendered due to deportation. 

These animals, often displaced during chaotic enforcement actions, illustrate the urgent need to address the connection between animal welfare and the systemic challenges facing many County residents. 

In response, the motion directs the Department of Animal Care and Control and the Office of Immigrant Affairs to implement a culturally and linguistically appropriate outreach campaign. The campaign will aim to inform pet-owning families, encourage adoptions and promote access to available county resources. 

“I’m proud to co-author this motion to proclaim October as ‘Adopt a Shelter Dog Month’ in our County,” said Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair and Fifth District Supervisor Kathryn Barger. “This initiative not only saves lives by promoting adoptions, but also raises awareness about the challenges faced by families and their pets during times of crisis. By combining compassion with community education, we can strengthen the bond between people and animals and create more resilient neighborhoods.”

The proclamation also reflects a growing cultural shift toward pet ownership, especially among younger residents, and highlights the importance of public education. The motion directs the Departments of Mental Health and Public Health to promote Adopt a Shelter Dog Month by sharing information about the physical and mental health benefits of pet companionship. It also instructs the County Library to highlight Adopt a Shelter Dog Month at all library locations, with themed displays and books on pet care, breed information and animal behavior. 

To view the motion, click here.