Title
Receive an updated response to Board Referral No. 2024.1 seeking staff to explore the possibility of the County of Monterey developing a grant program to support local non-profits to provide for and expand upon the available pet/animal education to the community with direction from Hitchcock Road Animal Services.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the County of Monterey Board of Supervisors:
Receive an updated response to Board Referral No. 2024.1 seeking staff to explore the possibility of the County of Monterey developing a grant program to support local non-profits to provide for and expand upon the available pet/animal education to the community with direction from Monterey County Animal Services.
SUMMARY/DISCUSSION:
On February 6, 2024, Board Referral No. 2024.1 was assigned to the Health Department to
determine the possibility of the County of Monterey developing a grant program to support local non-profits to provide for and expand upon the available pet/animal education to the community with direction from County of Monterey Animal Services (through Hitchcock Road Animal Services or HRAS).
The County of Monterey currently partners with local non-profits to spay and neuter dogs and cats. Education is a crucial component of spay and neuter programs as it helps promote responsible pet ownership, reduce overpopulation, and improve animal welfare. Education can help prevent unplanned litters and reduces the financial burden on pet owners and the shelter. Educating the public on how to responsibly abandon animals at shelters is essential for promoting animal welfare, reducing the burden on shelters, and ensuring that animals receive the care and attention they need. It can lead to more compassionate and responsible pet ownership practices while also benefiting the larger community.
At this time education is the responsibility of the County's Health Department through Hitchcock Road Animal Services (HRAS). There appears to exist an opp...
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