Remove Rachael Borrelli from Shelter Leadership
Remove Rachael Borrelli from Shelter Leadership
The Issue
In recent years, a disturbing trend has emerged in our county’s animal shelters with the rate of dog euthanasia more than doubling. This revelation came to light following a thorough investigation by KPBS in July. Particularly concerning is the situation at the Bonita shelter, where most of the issues have been reported. Shockingly, surfaced voice messages from Rachael Borrelli, the county official responsible for overseeing these shelters, reveal her referring to the animals as 'shit dogs' and expressing dissatisfaction with the number of euthanasias performed.
This is deeply troubling not only for the inhumane attitude it reflects but also because it starkly contradicts the public image our county officials have promoted regarding their treatment of shelter animals. Borrelli, who was surprisingly promoted to assistant director last June, has been entrusted with the welfare of these animals. Her apparent contempt and lack of empathy towards the animals under her care are unacceptable and have likely contributed to the doubling euthanasia rates and continued unresolved issues despite known problems.
An audit flagged serious problems at these shelters years ago, issues which have reportedly been ignored at the expense of countless innocent lives. The fact that such problems persist speaks volumes about the current leadership's inability to fulfill their duties responsibly.
We urge the County Board of Supervisors to take immediate action to reassess Borrelli’s role and the overall management at these shelters. It's time for leaders who prioritize compassion and improved care for our animals. The biased, dismissive attitude displayed must not be tolerated, especially in positions meant to provide care and selfless oversight.
Sign this petition to demand the removal of Rachael Borrelli from her role, and to advocate for leadership who sincerely value the life and welfare of the animals in our county’s care. Help us protect the vulnerable and ensure our shelters are a safe haven rather than a place of unwarranted euthanasia and neglect. Together, we can push for change that will lead to better outcomes for these innocent lives. Please add your voice to our demand for accountability and reform in our animal shelters. Sign this petition today.
Link to the KPBS article published September 17, 2025 written by investigative reporter Scott Rodd.
116
The Issue
In recent years, a disturbing trend has emerged in our county’s animal shelters with the rate of dog euthanasia more than doubling. This revelation came to light following a thorough investigation by KPBS in July. Particularly concerning is the situation at the Bonita shelter, where most of the issues have been reported. Shockingly, surfaced voice messages from Rachael Borrelli, the county official responsible for overseeing these shelters, reveal her referring to the animals as 'shit dogs' and expressing dissatisfaction with the number of euthanasias performed.
This is deeply troubling not only for the inhumane attitude it reflects but also because it starkly contradicts the public image our county officials have promoted regarding their treatment of shelter animals. Borrelli, who was surprisingly promoted to assistant director last June, has been entrusted with the welfare of these animals. Her apparent contempt and lack of empathy towards the animals under her care are unacceptable and have likely contributed to the doubling euthanasia rates and continued unresolved issues despite known problems.
An audit flagged serious problems at these shelters years ago, issues which have reportedly been ignored at the expense of countless innocent lives. The fact that such problems persist speaks volumes about the current leadership's inability to fulfill their duties responsibly.
We urge the County Board of Supervisors to take immediate action to reassess Borrelli’s role and the overall management at these shelters. It's time for leaders who prioritize compassion and improved care for our animals. The biased, dismissive attitude displayed must not be tolerated, especially in positions meant to provide care and selfless oversight.
Sign this petition to demand the removal of Rachael Borrelli from her role, and to advocate for leadership who sincerely value the life and welfare of the animals in our county’s care. Help us protect the vulnerable and ensure our shelters are a safe haven rather than a place of unwarranted euthanasia and neglect. Together, we can push for change that will lead to better outcomes for these innocent lives. Please add your voice to our demand for accountability and reform in our animal shelters. Sign this petition today.
Link to the KPBS article published September 17, 2025 written by investigative reporter Scott Rodd.
116
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Petition created on September 19, 2025