Riverside County flies dozens of pets out of state for adoption opportunities

Riverside County Department of Animal Services has transported 102 shelter animals out of state as part of a lifesaving push to reduce overcrowding and give more pets a second chance.

The effort, which was carried out last week with help from national rescue partners, marked the department’s largest cat transport of the year, with 54 cats sent to Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Utah. Another 48 dogs and cats were flown to shelters in New York, Texas and Pennsylvania.

“Lifesaving is our daily journey and through hard work and teamwork, we will continue to blaze trails and help more pets in Riverside County,” said Jackie Schart, RCDAS deputy director of programs and operations. “All the early mornings and late nights are so worth it for us to help homeless pets begin a new chapter.”  

The animals were transferred from multiple county shelters, which are currently over capacity.

To relieve additional pressure on the packed shelters at home, the department also launched a new short-term foster initiative, “Ticket to Ride,” which allows residents to foster pets as they await out-of-state transport.

The new program offers potential foster families a clear timeline of commitment and helps create crucial kennel space for the animals that continue to come into the shelter system, officials said.

Adoption and reclaim fees are currently waived at all shelter locations. With animal intakes typically spiking during summer, officials are urging the public to step in.

“I commend the shelter staff for their dedication to RivCo pets, and I’m grateful for our strong relationships with lifesaving partners,” said County Supervisor Yxstian Gutierrez. “We need the community to join in our efforts of helping pets find homes by fostering or adopting an amazing animal who is looking for their new start.”

To sign up for the “Ticket to Ride” program or to learn more about adoptions, visit www.rcdas.org.