Rise in Pleasanton Dog Abandonment Strains Area Shelters

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The Independent
By: Sarah Peters
Published: Mar 7, 2024

Dog abandonment, also known as dog dumping, is on the rise in Pleasanton, according to its animal services unit.

The episodes occur in both rural and suburban areas. Cases of dog dumping, along with inadequate capacity at shelters, can result in higher rates of euthanasia for dogs.

“I think we are still seeing the residual effects of the pandemic, where we saw a huge increase of adoptions as people were at home, sheltering in place,” said Pleasanton Animal Control Officer Frankie Ayers. “Once people returned to work, they realized how much of a commitment a pet can be. I also think rising costs and inflation (play) a role. Animals are expensive. Their care is expensive and veterinary care is very expensive.”

Ayers also spoke of the concern of high spay/neuter costs for owners and overpopulation in shelters.

“Surplus animals do put a surplus strain on our shelters. We only have so many kennels,” Ayers said.

Within the Tri-Valley, a total of 2,965 animals were taken in during 2023, including 1,221 dogs, according to the East Bay Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Of these, 950 dogs were adopted and 73 were euthanized. Transfers to and from other shelters and organizations also factored into the counts. The figures are up from a total intake of 2,375 animals and 943 dogs in 2022.

Total dogs accepted from the public were counted at 672 in 2023.

Also to be noted are the challenges in catching a dumped dog, as they are often frightened and “frantically trying to get back home,” said Ayers. In these cases, Ayers mentioned setting out baited traps, such as those that use chicken tenders, while working with other rescue centers.

In the case of witnessing someone abandoning an animal or neglecting one, Livermore Animal Control Officer Kathy Holmes conveyed it is important to capture the person’s license plate. This can lead to an investigation into animal cruelty.

In California, under Penal Code 597.1, pet abandonment in which the animal is “without proper care and attention” can result in a misdemeanor, punishable with a fine up to $1,000.

Cases of dog dumping have also increased nationally. Forty-six percent of dogs in the shelter system have been abandoned, according to the Shelter Animals Count. Also tracked by the organization is the nationwide number of animals in shelters at 6.5 million, including 3.2 million dogs.

Animal control can react to these situations, but it is also important to work on solutions from the beginning, such as focusing on adoption, said Ayers.