Animal Services is closing its animal shelters to the public starting today, April 2, due to an abundance of caution during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Some services will be modified, but there are still critical needs we have, including adoptions and fostering pets, said Animal Services Director Julie Bank.

“Although the shelters are closed to the public, we’re still at the shelter caring and providing for the animals and our animal control officers are in the field protecting our constituents and animals,” Bank said. “We have already been successful in placing more than 1,660 animals in March and we are still coordinating adoptions, fostering and pet reunions, but these services will have a unique look.”

Animal Shelters Temporarily Closing to Public

Animal Care Technician Lauren Vasquez shares a happy moment with adopter Amy Hutto..

That look will resemble an Uber-like service or something resembling Instacart, she said. Would-be adopters and fosters can search online for a pet that meets their family’s needs and team members will coordinate a curbside pickup or schedule a delivery to the adopter’s home if feasible, Bank said.

“We’ll still do our official adoption process and proper vetting,” Bank said. “But with strong social distancing still practiced. Also, if the pet does not make for a perfect fit, there is no pressure on the adopter to complete the application.” And if that’s not exciting enough, all animals for adoption are free of charge during this time.

Adopters can call 951-358-7387 or e-mail the pet animal ID number to this email: shelterinfo@rivco.org
Animal Services is also beefing its call center services to provide information on ways to support you as a pet owner and to provide more information on ways you can help as a concerned resident. Animal control officers will continue to respond to bite and cruelty investigations, as well as any public health, safety and welfare issues.

 

Image Sources

  • Coachella Valley Animal Campus veterinary technicians-vet-techs: RIVERSIDE COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF ANIMAL SERVICES