San Diego County’s Department of Animal Services released a report this week from an outside animal welfare consulting firm that details how county shelters handle staffing, medical care, population management, euthanasia and kennel cleaning, among other topics.
Team Shelter USA’s assessment recognized several accomplishments at the department — including improved leadership, dedicated staff and a high live release rate for animals. The report also points out problems — including overburdened staff and unclear guidelines around certain shelter policies.
A number of the issues described in the report have been known for years. Department of Animal Services Director Dr. Brie Sarvis, who was appointed in April, said the department is committed to making changes this time around. She requested the review in October of last year while serving as the county’s chief veterinarian…