Animal advocates file injunction against Riverside County to pause euthanasia for space practices

COACHELLA VALLEY, Calif. (KESQ) - Animal advocates, represented by Walter Clark Legal Group, have filed an injunction against the Riverside County Department of Animal Services to pause all euthanasia for space practices.

It comes a year and a half into the activists legal fight against the county's euthanasia practices, which some have called the highest in the country.

Euthanasia for space is when an animal is put down due to limited kennel room. Over the past year, Riverside County has reported overcapacity rates higher than 230% at times, with 3 to 4 animals in a kennel.

Currently, their fiscal year-to-date is 80.07%, lower than the 90% rate that classifies shelters as 'no-kill.'

While advocates sue the county, they say euthanasia for space practices have continued and they're urgently seeking a pause.

"Because one of the issues of taxpayer waste went up on appeal, they've continued to kill animals, it just hasn't changed. They have an opportunity to have extra kennels, but they don't do anything about it. They have a $40 million budget, but they waste it and they don't follow the law," Walter Clark with Walter Clark Legal Group said.

County officials have repeatedly said they are overwhelmed with the volume of animals surrendered at upwards of dozens a day at their shelter and in the field. However, advocates believe they could be doing more to save lives, including building more kennel space.

"They could do what they're supposed to do under the law, which is to see that they're all neutered before they release them. They're supposed to give them veterinary care evaluation. They don't, and so yes, they're aiding and causing their own problem at the same time," Clark said when asked about the county's claims.

Advocates have asked the county to provide more space, namely with new kennels like the one shown below from court documents.

"They have, probably a thousand animals, and they have a room for about 500. So instead of using their millions to provide additional kennels which can be rented, they just kill the animals," Clark said.

News Channel 3 reached out to Riverside County Department of Animal Services who said in a statement:

"We are aware of the latest request from opposing counsel, and counsel is leading our response through the legal system. Our priority will continue to be maintaining safe and humane care in our shelters while ensuring public safety for Riverside County people and pets. We are seeing significant improvements in our live release rates for cats and dogs compared to last year, and we are committed to ensuring more animals get the second chance they deserve. With additional staff in place, ongoing system-wide changes and a focus on lifesaving at all levels, we welcome community support and teamwork to build a better future for RivCo pets."

Clark says a hearing is set for February to rule on the injunction.

News Channel 3 is planning to speak directly with county officials in a follow-up story.