As has been the existing policy, Animal Control holds animals under our care for the required minimum period of 48 hours. Since operations began in July 2021, the average length of stay for dogs is approximately 45 days and 52 days for cats. We take public safety seriously and perform humane euthanasia services for unredeemed animals that pose a public safety risk or cannot be medically rehabilitated. With limited space and staffing, we practice capacity for care rather than warehouse animals indefinitely where their mental and behavioral health will decline in a shelter setting. Staff make conscientious and tireless efforts with our transfer partners to find positive dispositions for as many animals as possible.

Animal Control never turns away sick and injured animals. In Fiscal Year 2021-2022, Animal Control spent over $300,000 on medical treatments for animals coming into its shelters, including spay and neuter of animals being adopted through our transfer partners.

Our staff has been trained to provide emergency and triage care to injured and sick animals both in the shelters and in the field. We have a veterinarian on record, County-approved veterinary vendors, and our Animal Control Officers are equipped with animal first aid kits. Injured and sick animals are considered a Priority 1 and will receive immediate attention.

Once an animal is medically stabilized or deemed healthy will Animal Control transfer the animal to one of its several animal welfare non-profit organizations around the island where the animals can be fostered and adopted.