By JC Medina
Thurston County's Joint Animal Services is addressing an increase in animal intakes by developing an innovative volunteer program and investigating the underlying causes of rising shelter populations.
During a commission meeting on Monday, April 21, JASCOM Executive Director Sarah Hock revealed a nearly 50% increase in dog intake for the first quarter of 2025.
The intake spike comes amid broader issues affecting animal welfare, including pandemic-related disruptions and economic uncertainties.
"We are seeing a perfect storm," Hock explained.
She detailed multiple factors contributing to the increase, including severe veterinary care access problems and housing challenges.
Only 7% of housing in Washington is truly pet-inclusive, with most rentals imposing strict breed and size restrictions, Hock explained.
The pandemic has particularly impacted animal welfare, with Hock noting the lack of spay and neuter services during the COVID-19 era has "set animal welfare back 40 years."
In response, the organization is launching an Animal Cruelty Response Volunteer and Foster Program, designed to support large-scale animal seizure operations.
The first training session will involve 10 carefully vetted volunteers with backgrounds in veterinary and investigative work.
"The idea is not only to train specific, approved, embedded volunteers to go out with us, but also to get our community involved and have a sense of pride and ownership with our shelter and these cases," said Sierra Teas, JASCOM's Field Services Manager.
The program emerged from recent experiences, including a significant cockfighting investigation that involved more than 500 birds and eight different jurisdictions.
Teas added that a recent large-scale case involving Shiba Inus highlighted the agency's commitment to animal welfare.
Of 17 dogs seized, one named Mochi — a senior dog with special needs — was quickly adopted and now serves as an emotional support animal.
The organization has also received a substantial boost, including nearly $1 million from the estate of Anne Reed Flannery.
The funds could potentially support future facility expansions and veterinary services.
Simultaneously, the agency is exploring potential contracts with neighboring Mason County for animal control services and seeking state legislative support for facility design.
Despite challenges, the organization reported positive trends, including a 161% increase in animal adoptions and continued efforts to address community animal welfare needs.
The commission is actively investigating long-term solutions, including potential legislative changes to expand low-cost spay and neuter services.
JHermes
Bless Anne Louise Flannery. Her gift will help many helpless creatures and hopefully give them a second chance at a happy life.
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