Stop the neglect. Stop the needless euthanasia. Act now.

We, the undersigned, call upon Riverside County officials to urgently address the unfolding crisis in its animal shelter system. A current lawsuit filed against the County—alleging violations of the Hayden Act, including the failure to provide emergency medical care and proper record-keeping—has exposed grave issues that threaten the lives and well- being of countless animals in the shelter system.

The negligence doesn't stop at over-vaccination. Practices within these shelters have led to unnecessary euthanasia and inadequate care, leaving animals in dire situations. This is not only a breach of legal obligations but a moral failure to protect the lives of vulnerable animals who desperately need our help.

💔 A Resident’s Story

Jethro, a dog adopted on February 21, now suffers serious mobility issues—likely linked to over-vaccination. The shelter administered a 3-year rabies vaccine despite Jethro having already received one at just 2½ months of age. Upon adoption, his guardian was denied access to vital medical information: the vaccine manufacturer, lot numbers, and expiration dates. This lack of transparency isn't an isolated case—it reflects a wider pattern of systemic neglect.

⚠️ The Crisis Is Escalating

Healthy, adoptable animals are being euthanized due to overcrowding
No temporary facilities have been introduced to manage intake overflow
Shelter operations lack basic medical accountability and transparency
All of this is happening despite Riverside County’s $39 million annual animal services budget.

✅ We Demand Immediate Action

• Establish temporary shelter spaces within 60 days using vacant public buildings or mobile units
• Enforce complete medical transparency for all shelter animals
• Partner with local rescue organizations and nonprofits to provide foster support and expanded care
  Other counties have implemented these solutions successfully. Riverside can too—if it chooses compassion over complacency.

 Legal Accountability Is Underway

The current lawsuit is not just a wake-up call—it’s a demand for justice. We urge county officials not to wait for a court ruling. Act now. Spare lives. Restore public trust.

💔 Jethro’s Story: When Shelter Neglect Becomes Personal

Jethro—a loving, resilient dog—entered the shelter system twice as a stray. On his second intake in February, at just 9 months old, he was given a second 3-year rabies vaccine without disclosure or proper documentation. His adopter later learned he’d already received that same vaccine at 2½ months of age. Over-vaccination can lead to serious consequences: behavioral changes, neurological impairment, and Vaccine-Induced Disease (VID)—a recognized condition in veterinary medicine.

Today, Jethro struggles with severe mobility issues and behavioral challenges. His story shows what happens when transparency and responsibility are ignored.

No warning. No records. No accountability.

Jethro’s story is just one—but it represents many. Animals and adopters deserve better.

💸 When Adoption Turns Into a Financial Strain

Jethro’s health challenges have placed an immense financial burden on his guardian—something no adopter expects or deserves when rescuing a pet. Sadly, this experience mirrors a growing pattern across the country:

• Thousands of families re-home pets due to medical costs they cannot afford.
• Behavioral issues stemming from untreated medical conditions lead to returns
• Many pets are surrendered simply because transparent care and post-adoption support are missing

This cycle hurts animals, breaks hearts, and damages trust. Riverside County can help stop it—by enforcing responsible practices and providing real support to the adopters who step up to give these animals a second chance.

✍️ Sign This Petition Help protect the vulnerable animals in our care and demand humane, responsible action. Together, we can hold the County accountable—and save lives.