Dozens of pets flown from Riverside County to Seattle as shelters reach 230% capacity

With local animal shelters overwhelmed, Riverside County Department of Animal Services on Monday sent 39 pets to Washington state as part of its ongoing effort to ease crowding and save more pet lives.

The transport, operated in partnership with Wings of Rescue, marked the 11th such flight of the year, up from just three in 2024. Twenty dogs and eight cats were sent to Seattle Humane, while 11 cats went to the Progressive Animal Welfare Society.

The flight comes as Riverside County shelters continue to operate far beyond capacity. In September, dog population levels reached more than 230%, officials said.

These transports offer a crucial lifeline for animals looking for their forever homes.

“Every animal on this flight represents hope—for the pets themselves and for the families who will welcome them,” said Riverside County Department of Animal Services Manager Daylin Valencia.

Riverside County Supervisor V. Manuel Perez called the effort a win for all involved. “Whether in Riverside or Seattle, RCDAS is giving pets more opportunities to be seen and find a place to call home,” he said.

To complement the transport program, the department has also launched several new initiatives aimed at boosting local adoption and foster support. These include pre-adoption holds, short-term fostering tied to flights, one-day dog field trips and foster stipends. Each is designed to help free up space and increase the chances of adoption.

The department encourages residents to adopt, foster or volunteer as shelter resources remain strained. For more information about fostering, click here. A full list of adoptable pets is available online.