Riverside County Animal Services is under intense scrutiny following two key meetings this week that highlighted ongoing concerns over shelter conditions and euthanasia practices. NBC Palm Springs’ Mary Strong attended both meetings, where county officials faced mounting pressure to commit to a no-kill policy and improve overall shelter operations.
One major outcome from the meetings was the county’s decision to begin sedating animals before euthanasia—something advocates have long demanded. Previously, animals were euthanized without sedation, a practice many called inhumane. This change, set to take effect on January 27th, is seen as a small but necessary step forward.
Supervisor Manuel Perez and the commission publicly expressed, for the first time, their desire to transition to a no-kill model. However, achieving that goal remains uncertain. A key issue raised was the county’s $2.1 million contract with consultant Kristen Haasen, who has limited authority to enforce changes. Documents presented at the meetings revealed that Haasen’s recommendations were largely identical to solutions proposed by local experts a decade ago—solutions the county previously ignored.
Advocates questioned why the county is investing millions in outside consultants instead of relying on experienced local organizations, such as Palm Springs Animal Shelter and Animal Samaritans, which already operate successful no-kill programs.
Adding to the uncertainty is the hiring of a new shelter director, Mary Martin. While some hope she will bring much-needed reform, others worry that bureaucratic roadblocks may limit her ability to implement real change. Critics argue that hiring a director before an outside consultant would have been a more logical and cost-effective approach.
As public frustration grows, many are calling for more direct action, including leadership accountability and a clear timeline for Riverside County to transition into a no-kill system. Whether county officials will listen to experts and take decisive action remains to be seen. Fred Roggin sits down with Mary Strong to talk about the latest updates.
