Funding enables shelter to purchase trolley systems and dog houses to help pet owners abide by California’s anti-tethering law
Santa Cruz, Calif.—The ASPCA® (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) today announced it will provide a $22,500 grant to Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter (SCCAS) to launch a new program aimed at removing tethered chains from the yards of willing pet owners in Santa Cruz County and replacing them with trolley systems—a more humane method for keeping dogs confined outside. The grant funding will allow SCCAS to install nearly 300 trolley systems throughout Santa Cruz County, as well as 200 dog houses.Since 2006, it has been illegal in the state of California to keep dogs tethered on chains, as stated by California Health & Safety Code 122335. Despite the anti-tethering law, many pet owners continue to tether their dogs in Santa Cruz County. SCCAS recognized the need to intervene and offer the necessary materials and assistance for pet owners who may otherwise not have the funds to abide by the law.
“This grant will allow our agency to provide a more comfortable and legal option for dogs who live outdoors,” states Todd Stosuy, Field Services Manager with the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter. “While our agency promotes dogs living indoors, we understand that this is not feasible for all families. We are ecstatic to be able to assist residents in our community by providing resources that will create a more positive living environment for their dogs.”
The initiative is part of SCCAS’ ‘Door-to-Door’ program, in which animal control officers visit pet owners in underprivileged communities to offer free services and resources for pets. As part of the Door-to-Door program, as well as other outreach initiatives, the SCCAS offers low cost spay and neuter, micro-chipping, vaccinations, dog houses, backyard dog enrichment activities, collars, identification tags and leashes.
“Many pet owners don’t want to keep their dogs on chains but may not be able to afford the materials for a trolley system or fence,” said Justine Dang, ASPCA Senior Director of President’s Office Operations. “The ASPCA is pleased to be able to help SCCAS reach disadvantaged pet owners and create a better quality of life for dogs in Santa Cruz County.”
Pet owners in Santa Cruz County who are interested in having a trolley system installed should contact SCCAS at 831-454-7254.
About Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter
The Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter is the only open door admission shelter in Santa Cruz County. The Agency has two locations—one at 2200 7th Avenue in Santa Cruz and one at 580 Airport Boulevard in Watsonville. The phone number is 454-7303 and website is www.scanimalshelter.org.
About the ASPCA®
Founded in 1866, the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) is the first animal welfare organization in North America and serves as the nation’s leading voice for animals. More than two million supporters strong, the ASPCA’s mission is to provide effective means for the prevention of cruelty to animals throughout the United States. As a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation, the ASPCA is a national leader in the areas of anti-cruelty, community outreach and animal health services. For more information, please visit www.ASPCA.org, and be sure to follow the ASPCA on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.
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