Public Comments — Apple Valley City Council, October 22, 2024

Dear Madam/Sir,
I am writing to express grave concerns regarding the alarming rise in euthanasia rates and the ongoing systemic issues at Apple Valley Animal Shelter (AVAS). The situation has reached a critical point, with dozens of cats losing their lives everyday without proper evaluation or consideration for alternatives like adoption or rescue.

No improvement shown even though intake dropped significantly from 325 in August to 182 in September.

Live release rate for cats in Sep is as low as 13%. This lack of visibility contributes significantly to the high euthanasia rate.
 As of October 15, about 20% of the cat intaken in Sep has been posted on the AVAS website v.s. 100% of the dog intake posted
 In August 2024 237 cats were euthanized, out of this, 198 (83%) of the cats never showed up on the website for the public to see.
 Out of 182 cats taken in during September 2024, only 34 were listed on the website, while 75 were marked as “hold” and 65 were euthanized.

AVAS has significantly neglected its eƯorts on the cat side, and the outcomes for AVAS cats in 2024 may mirror those of 2023 (only 7% cats made it out alive out of 3469 intake in 2023) :

Key Observations:

1. Even though intake dropped significantly from 325 in August to 182 in September. Live release rate for cats in Sep is as low as 13%.

2. No TNVR or low cost Spay and neuter program provided in Apple Valley City

3. In August, 237 cats were euthanized, with 198 (about 83%) not listed on the AVAS website.

4. 75 cats from September intake remain under hold as of Oct 3.

5. As of October 2, only 12 out of 141 cats taken in September were listed on the site.

6. Ongoing outbreak since July 2024 till now, with new intakes continuing to be exposed and scheduled to be euthanized in just a few days. Adoption requests were rejected, and random rules have been added that undermine life-saving eƯorts.

7. No urgent lists are provided, despite multiple requests, and cats are often euthanized directly with no chance at adoption or rescue

8. Volunteers are still denied access to take videos or photos of these cats in the back end, meaning they remain invisible from the moment they enter the shelter.  Poor visibility contributes to the high euthanization rate. Only 5% to 10% of the cats are put in the adoption area and visible to the public
 A recent request sent to AVAS by a rescue partner asking for a volunteer to take videos on behalf of them was rejected by AVAS

9. Around 20% (or less) of cats are listed on the AVAS website in Aug/ Sep compared to 100% of the dogs which means AVAS has the ability to list all their animals on the website

10. Cats in the back end were euthanized swiftly when they could legally be, despite ample space available.

11. Medical Care is Nominal:
 Monthly disease outbreaks result in mass euthanasia for health reasons.  New intake has been placed in the same room/ area exposed to ringworm/panleuk the SAME day positive cases left/euthanized
 No vaccine was given for cats labeled as feral and almost NO cat was vaccinated during intake
 AVAS euthanizes cats being exposed without even testing them  Lots of cats labeled "under treatment" show no medical records beyond their vaccination, yet many are euthanized regardless.
 Some cats and kittens scheduled to be euthanized turned out to be “overall healthy” when checked by a vet
 No regular evolution /health check was given. It’s normal that kittens were not re-weighted in weeks or even months. A kitten adopted out last week was put under observation for more than 2 month

12. Adoption (even rescue) requests are often denied by A-V-A-S. The reasons can vary, from claims that "the cat has been exposed to [illness]" to requiring the remote adopter to be physically present. In some cases, by the next day, they simply respond with, "The cat you requested has already been euthanized."

13. AVAS does not include cats in their adoption event. In contract, almost every cat rescue hosts adoption events in public places
Based on recent observations and data, it is evident that immediate reforms are necessary to ensure the welfare of animals under AVAS's care and to restore community trust.

Given AVAS's ongoing negligence and mishandling of these animals, we strongly urge the following immediate actions:

I. enact reforms including:

1. Grant access to authorized volunteers to take videos and photos of those 90% of cats in nonadoption areas to increase visibility and promote adoptions.

2. List all cats on the shelter's website within 24 hours of intake  Disclose the outcome of each cat in monthly reports to ensure accountability and transparency.

3. Stop euthanize cats not in adoption area when they can legally be  Avoid euthanasia when space is available.
 Implement regular reassessment of cats and timely updates to shelter notes to accurately reflect their behavioral status.

4. Initiate TNVR program for the community cats in Apple Valley City

5. Prioritize providing medical care over resorting to euthanasia as a first option:
 Administer vaccines to every cat upon 72 hours from entry to the shelter, including feral ones.  Stop put new intake to exposure area
 A comprehensive medical treatment plan must be provided for the cats currently sick .  measures must be implemented to prevent further intensive and frequent outbreaks  Refrain from immediate euthanasia for health reasons; Maintain a variety of antibiotics and medications to treat illnesses promptly.
 Kittens should be paired up and kept in separate cages instead of free roaming in the same room when there’s no suƯicient medical care.
 Establish a dedicated medical room and consider oƯering on-site veterinary services, potentially through partnerships with veterinary clinics.
 Improve airflow and hygiene protocols within the shelter to prevent the spread of disease.

6. Support Adoption and Rescue EƯorts:
 provide a daily urgent list of cats to rescues and the community.  Adoption and rescue request need to be respond in a timely manner  Discontinue rejecting adoption or foster requests due to random reasons and cease euthanizing cats under evaluation.
 Ensure cats are included in all adoption events and community fairs to maximize adoption opportunities.

7. Those responsible for the mishandling of disease outbreaks must be held accountable. We request for replacement of the current shelter management including shelter director and key stakeholders.

II. Launch an investigation into AVAS.

It’s becoming clear that AVAS is doing the bare minimum to meet legal standards, while neglecting the actual care of these animals.

Euthanasia seems to be the easiest route for them,and it’s heartbreaking to see life-saving eƯorts pushed aside in favor of convenience.

This isn’t just neglect; it’s a system that’s failing these animals, leading to unnecessary deaths.

An immediate investigation is needed to address these failures, ensure proper evaluations, and restore transparency. The community and these animals deserve better. Those responsible for mishandling disease outbreaks must be held accountable.

Thank you for your attention to these urgent matters. I look forward to seeing positive changes that benefit both the animals and our community.

Please do not ignore our calls for help. An imminent reform is needed to save hundreds and thousands of lives. One day of inaction means death for many. This is not what we want for our community.

Regards,
Concerned California resident
Dear Apple Valley City Council,
I am writing to formally protest the current euthanasia practices at Apple Valley Animal Shelter (AVAS).

Under California’s Hayden Law and general euthanasia criteria, shelters should only euthanize animals when it is medically necessary to alleviate suƯering due to injury or illness, or in cases where an animal poses a danger to public safety due to severe behavioral issues. Healthy, adoptable animals should never be euthanized, especially when there are alternatives like adoption, rescue transfers, or fostering available.

However, on Oct.18, AVAS has placed all the cats currently listed on its website on the urgent list for euthanasia, even though many are healthy and friendly.

The current practices at Apple Valley Animal Shelter (AVAS) seem to deviate from these principles and goes against the very purpose of an animal shelter.:
• Euthanizing Healthy, Adoptable Cats: AVAS places all
cats on the urgent list despite many being healthy, friendly, and adoptable. Euthanizing animals that are healthy and adoptable contradicts the criteria that euthanasia should be reserved for animals suƯering due to illness or injury, or those who pose a behavioral risk. • Lack of Promotion and Public Transparency: AVAS has
been criticized for listing only a small percentage of cats on their website (around 20%) in its care on its website in Sep/Aug v.s 100% of the dogs. AVAS also continues to exclude cats from key adoption events, such as the upcoming Paws n Claws adoption event on October 19th Euthanizing cats without adequate public exposure or promotion for adoption violates the principle that shelters must make every reasonable eƯort to facilitate rehoming before euthanasia.
• Premature Urgency: AVAS is placing cats on the urgent list and labeling them for potential euthanasia prematurely, even for animals whose mandatory holding period has not expired. For instance,
5 cats on the urgent list cannot legally be euthanized until October 23, yet they are already flagged. This is not only unethical but may also be legally questionable.
• No EƯort to Implement Life-Saving Programs: AVAS does not have a Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) or low-cost spay and neuter program in place, which could address the problem from the root.
• The rationale for placing all the cats listed on the
website in the urgent list raises questions about compliance with the legal requirements for euthanasia. -- 23 out of 25 cats on the urgent list are in the adoption area and available for adoption as of morning of Oct.18
-- Other other two kittens placed in the backend can be held as shown in their profile picture Euthanasia is intended as a last resort for animals who are suƯering or beyond help, not as a convenience for managing shelter populations.

As observed, AVAS is not making the necessary eƯorts required by law to prioritize life-saving measures over euthanasia.

I urge the Apple Valley City Council and San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors to investigate these practices and ensure that AVAS adheres to both the spirit and letter of the law. It is crucial that AVAS implement life-saving measures, such as greater transparency, improved promotion of adoptable animals, and the establishment of spay-neuter programs, rather than resorting to euthanasia for healthy, adoptable animals.

Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter.

Sincerely,
Shanshan Zhao
Urgent: Ongoing Crisis at AVAS
Dear Apple Valley City Council/San Bernardino County Supervisors, We appreciate the county's commitment to transitioning community and shelter cat management towards a Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) centered approach.

However, We are witnessing an alarming and urgent crisis at AVAS that demands immediate attention. The shelter's recurring outbreaks and the swift, tragic euthanasia of animals are becoming a grim pattern. This situation is not only devastating for the animals but also reflects a critical failure in shelter management that must be addressed without delay.

Why are major outbreaks happening at AVAS every month? How do these outbreaks escalate so quickly?

No improvement shown even though intake dropped significantly from 325 in August to 182 in September.

AVAS has significantly neglected its eƯorts on the cat side, and the outcomes for AVAS cats in 2024 may mirror those of 2023 (only 7% cats made it out alive out of 3469 intake in 2023) :

Key Observations:

1. Even though intake dropped significantly from 325 in August to 182 in September. Live release rate for cats in Sep is as low as 13%.

2. No TNVR or low cost Spay and neuter program provided in Apple Valley City

3. In August, 237 cats were euthanized, with 198 (about 83%) not listed on the AVAS website.

4. 75 cats from September intake remain under hold as of Oct 3.

5. As of October 2, only 12 out of 141 cats taken in September were listed on the site.

7. No urgent lists are provided, despite multiple requests, and cats are often euthanized directly with no chance at adoption or rescue

8. Volunteers are still denied access to take videos or photos of these cats in the back end, meaning they remain invisible from the moment they enter the shelter.

9.  Poor visibility contributes to the high euthanization rate. Only 5% to 10% of the cats are put in the adoption area and visible to the public
 A recent request sent to AVAS by a rescue partner asking for a volunteer to take videos on behalf of them was rejected by AVAS

10. Around 20% (or less) of cats are listed on the AVAS website in Aug/ Sep compared to 100% of the dogs which means AVAS has the ability to list all their animals on the website

11. Cats in the back end were euthanized swiftly when they could legally be, despite ample space available.

12. Medical Care is Nominal:

13.  Monthly disease outbreaks result in mass euthanasia for health reasons.  New intake has been placed in the same room/ area exposed to ringworm/panleuk the SAME day positive cases left/euthanized
 No vaccine was given for cats labeled as feral and almost NO cat was vaccinated during intake
 AVAS euthanizes cats being exposed without even testing them  Lots of cats labeled "under treatment" show no medical records beyond their vaccination, yet many are euthanized regardless.
 Some cats and kittens scheduled to be euthanized turned out to be “overall healthy” when checked by a vet
 No regular evolution /health check was given. It’s normal that kittens were not re-weighted in weeks or even months. A kitten adopted out last week was put under observation for more than 2 month

14. Adoption (even rescue) requests are often denied by AVAS. The reasons can vary, from claims that "the cat has been exposed to [illness]" to requiring the remote adopter to be physically present. In some cases, by the next day, they simply respond with, "The cat you requested has already been euthanized."

15. AVAS does not include cats in their adoption event. In contract, almost every cat rescue hosts adoption events in public places
Based on recent observations and data, it is evident that immediate reforms are necessary to ensure the welfare of animals under AVAS's care and to restore community trust.

Given AVAS's ongoing negligence and mishandling of these animals, we strongly urge the following immediate actions:

I. enact reforms including:

1. Grant access to authorized volunteers to take videos and photos of those 90% of cats in nonadoption areas to increase visibility and promote adoptions.

2. List all cats on the shelter's website within 24 hours of intake  Disclose the outcome of each cat in monthly reports to ensure accountability and transparency.

4. Initiate TNVR program for the community cats in Apple Valley City

7. Those responsible for the mishandling of disease outbreaks must be held accountable. We request for replacement of the current shelter management including shelter director and key stakeholders.

II. Launch an investigation into AVAS.

It’s becoming clear that AVAS is doing the bare minimum to meet legal standards, while neglecting the actual care of these animals.

Euthanasia seems to be the easiest route for them,and it’s heartbreaking to see life-saving eƯorts pushed aside in favor of convenience.

This isn’t just neglect; it’s a system that’s failing these animals, leading to unnecessary deaths.

Thank you for your attention to these urgent matters. I look forward to seeing positive changes that benefit both the animals and our community.

Jordan Devito
Dear Madam/Sir,
I am writing to express grave concerns regarding the alarming rise in euthanasia rates and the ongoing systemic issues at Apple Valley Animal Shelter (AVAS). The situation has reached a critical point, with dozens of cats losing their lives everyday without proper evaluation or consideration for alternatives like adoption or rescue.

No improvement shown even though intake dropped significantly from 325 in August to 182 in September. Live release rate for cats in Sep is as low as 13%. This lack of visibility contributes significantly to the high euthanasia rate.
 As of October 15, about 20% of the cat intaken in Sep has been posted on the AVAS website v.s. 100% of the dog intake posted
 In August 2024 237 cats were euthanized, out of this, 198 (83%) of the cats never showed up on the website for the public to see.
 Out of 182 cats taken in during September 2024, only 34 were listed on the website, while 75 were marked as “hold” and 65 were euthanized.

AVAS has significantly neglected its eƯorts on the cat side, and the outcomes for AVAS cats in 2024 may mirror those of 2023 (only 7% cats made it out alive out of 3469 intake in 2023) :

Key Observations:

1. Even though intake dropped significantly from 325 in August to 182 in September. Live release rate for cats in Sep is as low as 13%.

2. No TNVR or low cost Spay and neuter program provided in Apple Valley City

3. In August, 237 cats were euthanized, with 198 (about 83%) not listed on the AVAS website.

4. 75 cats from September intake remain under hold as of Oct 3.

5. As of October 2, only 12 out of 141 cats taken in September were listed on the site.

7. 8.

9. 1. No urgent lists are provided, despite multiple requests, and cats are often euthanized directly with no chance at adoption or rescue

2. Volunteers are still denied access to take videos or photos of these cats in the back end, meaning they remain invisible from the moment they enter the shelter.  Poor visibility contributes to the high euthanization rate. Only 5% to 10% of the cats are put in the adoption area and visible to the public
 A recent request sent to AVAS by a rescue partner asking for a volunteer to take videos on behalf of them was rejected by AVAS

3. Around 20% (or less) of cats are listed on the AVAS website in Aug/ Sep compared to 100% of the dogs which means AVAS has the ability to list all their animals on the website

4. Cats in the back end were euthanized swiftly when they could legally be, despite ample space available.

5. Medical Care is Nominal:
 Monthly disease outbreaks result in mass euthanasia for health reasons.  New intake has been placed in the same room/ area exposed to ringworm/panleuk the SAME day positive cases left/euthanized
 No vaccine was given for cats labeled as feral and almost NO cat was vaccinated during intake
 AVAS euthanizes cats being exposed without even testing them  Lots of cats labeled "under treatment" show no medical records beyond their vaccination, yet many are euthanized regardless.
 Some cats and kittens scheduled to be euthanized turned out to be “overall healthy” when checked by a vet
 No regular evolution /health check was given. It’s normal that kittens were not reweighted in weeks or even months. A kitten adopted out last week was put under observation for more than 2 month

6. Adoption (even rescue) requests are often denied by AVAS. The reasons can vary, from claims that "the cat has been exposed to [illness]" to requiring the remote adopter to be physically present. In some cases, by the next day, they simply respond with, "The cat you requested has already been euthanized."

7. AVAS does not include cats in their adoption event. In contract, almost every cat rescue hosts adoption events in public places
Based on recent observations and data, it is evident that immediate reforms are necessary to ensure the welfare of animals under AVAS's care and to restore community trust.

Given AVAS's ongoing negligence and mishandling of these animals, we strongly urge the following immediate actions:

I. enact reforms including:

8. Grant access to authorized volunteers to take videos and photos of those 90% of cats in non-adoption areas to increase visibility and promote adoptions.

9. List all cats on the shelter's website within 24 hours of intake  Disclose the outcome of each cat in monthly reports to ensure accountability and transparency.

11. Stop euthanize cats not in adoption area when they can legally be  Avoid euthanasia when space is available.
 Implement regular reassessment of cats and timely updates to shelter notes to accurately reflect their behavioral status.

14. Initiate TNVR program for the community cats in Apple Valley City

15. Prioritize providing medical care over resorting to euthanasia as a first option:
 Administer vaccines to every cat upon 72 hours from entry to the shelter, including feral ones.
 Stop put new intake to exposure area
 A comprehensive medical treatment plan must be provided for the cats currently sick .  measures must be implemented to prevent further intensive and frequent outbreaks  Refrain from immediate euthanasia for health reasons; Maintain a variety of antibiotics and medications to treat illnesses promptly.
 Kittens should be paired up and kept in separate cages instead of free roaming in the same room when there’s no suƯicient medical care.
 Establish a dedicated medical room and consider oƯering on-site veterinary services, potentially through partnerships with veterinary clinics.  Improve airflow and hygiene protocols within the shelter to prevent the spread of disease.

24. Support Adoption and Rescue EƯorts:
 provide a daily urgent list of cats to rescues and the community.  Adoption and rescue request need to be respond in a timely manner  Discontinue rejecting adoption or foster requests due to random reasons and cease euthanizing cats under evaluation.
 Ensure cats are included in all adoption events and community fairs to maximize adoption opportunities.

29. Those responsible for the mishandling of disease outbreaks must be held accountable. We request for replacement of the current shelter management including shelter director and key stakeholders.

II. Launch an investigation into AVAS.

It’s becoming clear that AVAS is doing the bare minimum to meet legal standards, while neglecting the actual care of these animals.

Euthanasia seems to be the easiest route for them,and it’s heartbreaking to see life-saving eƯorts pushed aside in favor of convenience.

This isn’t just neglect; it’s a system that’s failing these animals, leading to unnecessary deaths.

Thank you for your attention to these urgent matters. I look forward to seeing positive changes that benefit both the animals and our community.

Lisa Haut
Please, your animal "shelter" is a butcher shop. Someone out there doesn't know what they are doing, or just don't like animals. Please investigate the slaughter at your shelter. It's time to do something about this shameful atrocity.

Dear Apple Valley City Council/San Bernardino County Supervisors, We appreciate the county's commitment to transitioning community and shelter cat management towards a Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) centered approach.

Why are major outbreaks happening at AVAS every month? How do these outbreaks escalate so quickly? Let’s take the 14 cats unlisted on Aug.22 as an example:
- 11 out of 14 arrived at the shelter less than three days ago (intake dates: August 19 and 20) and were then labeled as "possibly exposed."
- As of August 22, 6 out of 14 were not vaccinated, with one arrived at the shelter on 6.25 and vaccinated on

8. 21.
- All 14 were placed in the same area where kittens euthanized on August 15 and 16 were caged. - Aru (#244568) was placed in the same cage where three kittens—Whisker (#244043), Mittins (#244042), and Hunter (#244044)—who were euthanized on August 16 had been housed.

Concerning Patterns:

This is a troubling trend at AVAS: whether it’s kitty cold, ringworm, or panleuk, new intakes are often placed in the same areas—even the same cages—where cats and kittens were previously euthanized for health reasons. This happens even on the same day. ၳၴၵ
Questions that need answers:
 How do these outbreaks escalate so quickly?
 Why aren’t all new intakes vaccinated immediately?
 Why are new intakes constantly put in the exposed area?  What actions are being taken to address the outbreak?  What treatments are being administered to those under observation?  Why were these cats delisted and euthanized so swiftly, limiting rescue opportunities?  Why does this cycle keep repeating?
Considering AVAS's demonstrated incompetence and negligence, we strongly urge:

1. suspending the intake of cats to AVAS until substantive reforms are enacted

2. Investigation to be initiated on AVAS
The animals and our community deserve so much better. We need urgent answers and action to break this cycle of tragedy.

Timeline of Recent Events:
 May 19: Adoption area closed due to potential ringworm; 57 cats euthanized.  June 12: 8 kittens euthanized due to health concerns; 33 cats euthanized from June 1 to June 18. ⯸⯹⯺⯻⯼⯽  July 5: 9 kittens unlisted due to health concerns. On July 13, the adoption area closed due to a suspected ringworm outbreak; 68 cats euthanized in July.  August 13: 11 cats euthanized, including 6 kittens.
 August 15-16: 20 cats euthanized, including 17 kittens and a momma cat with babies.  August 17: 7 more cats scheduled for euthanasia.
 August 18-19: AVAS was closed;
 August 20: 12 cats euthanized.
 August 21: Adoption area closed.
 August 22: All 14 cats listed on August 21 removed from the AVAS website and placed on hold due to "possible exposure."
 Sep.3 and Sep.4: All 8 urgent cats were “exposed” and can only be rescued according to AVAS Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter.

Tina Nikolova
Dear Madam/Sir,
I am writing to express grave concerns regarding the alarming rise in euthanasia rates and the ongoing systemic issues at Apple Valley Animal Shelter (AVAS). The situation has reached a critical point, with dozens of cats losing their lives everyday without proper evaluation or consideration for alternatives like adoption or rescue.

No improvement shown even though intake dropped significantly from 325 in August to 182 in September.

AVAS has significantly neglected its eƯorts on the cat side, and the outcomes for AVAS cats in 2024 may mirror those of 2023 (only 7% cats made it out alive out of 3469 intake in 2023) :

Key Observations:

1. Even though intake dropped significantly from 325 in August to 182 in September. Live release rate for cats in Sep is as low as 13%.

2. No TNVR or low cost Spay and neuter program provided in Apple Valley City

3. In August, 237 cats were euthanized, with 198 (about 83%) not listed on the AVAS website.

4. 75 cats from September intake remain under hold as of Oct 3.

5. As of October 2, only 12 out of 141 cats taken in September were listed on the site.

7. No urgent lists are provided, and cats are often euthanized directly with no chance at adoption or rescue before Oct.17, then all cats listed on the AVAS website were placed on the euth list on Oct.18. With the majority of them in the adoption area/ being adoptable.

9. Around 20% (or less) of cats are listed on the AVAS website in Aug/ Sep compared to 100% of the dogs which means AVAS has the ability to list all their animals on the website

10. Cats in the back end were euthanized swiftly when they could legally be, despite ample space available.

12. Adoption (even rescue) requests are often denied by AVAS. The reasons can vary, from claims that "the cat has been exposed to [illness]" to requiring the remote adopter to be physically present. In some cases, by the next day, they simply respond with, "The cat you requested has already been euthanized."

Given AVAS's ongoing negligence and mishandling of these animals, we strongly urge the following immediate actions:

I. enact reforms including:

1. Grant access to authorized volunteers to take videos and photos of those 90% of cats in nonadoption areas to increase visibility and promote adoptions.

2. List all cats on the shelter's website within 24 hours of intake  Disclose the outcome of each cat in monthly reports to ensure accountability and transparency.

4. Initiate TNVR program for the community cats in Apple Valley City

7. Those responsible for the mishandling of disease outbreaks must be held accountable. We request for replacement of the current shelter management including shelter director and key stakeholders.

II. Launch an investigation into AVAS.

It’s becoming clear that AVAS is doing the bare minimum to meet legal standards, while neglecting the actual care of these animals.

Euthanasia seems to be the easiest route for them,and it’s heartbreaking to see life-saving eƯorts pushed aside in favor of convenience.

This isn’t just neglect; it’s a system that’s failing these animals, leading to unnecessary deaths.

Thank you for your attention to these urgent matters. I look forward to seeing positive changes that benefit both the animals and our community.

I am writing this urging for you to investigate Apple Valley Animal Shelter, CA and put a stop to the murders of innocent animals.

AVAS has significantly neglected its eƯorts on the cat side. The outcomes for AVAS cats in 2024 may mirror those of 2023
 7% of cats were adopted from AVAS and 0% rescued out of 3469 intake in 2023  No improvement shown even though intake dropped significantly from 325 in August to 182 in September. Live release rate for cats in Sep is as low as 13%. The lack of visibility contributes significantly to the high euthanasia rate.
 No urgent lists are provided, despite multiple requests, and cats are often euthanized directly given no chance at adoption or rescue
 Around 20% (or less) of cats are listed on the AVAS website in Aug/Sep compared to 100% of the dogs which means AVAS has the ability to list all their animals on the website but chooses not to - leaving most cats without any visibility.
 The evaluation process is merely nominal. Till end of Aug. Less than 5% of the adult cats are labeled as friendly and put in the adoption area
 The 90% to 95% labeled as feral were often euthanized the same day/next day their stray hold expires DESPITE available space.
§ No regular evolution /health check was given, cats often going weeks or even months without re-evaluation and euthanized.
§ No access was granted to volunteers to take photo and videos for the majority of cats not in the adoption area, meaning they remain invisible from the moment they enter the shelter, and no chance to be adopted or rescued.
§ Monthly disease outbreaks result in mass euthanasia for health reasons. Ongoing outbreak since July 2024 till now, with new intakes continuing to be exposed to disease like ringworm/panleuk sometimes the same day positive cases left or euthanized.
§ No vaccine was given for cats labeled as feral
§ Multiple cases that AVAS euthanizes cats being exposed without testing them for the disease § Lots of cats labeled "under treatment" show no medical records beyond their vaccination, many are euthanized regardless.
§ Adoption and rescue requests are often denied, citing arbitrary rules. § Out of state adoption request was no longer allowed, adoption of pending euth cats are no longer allowed, in person meet and greet requested for all cats including feral ones even adopters lived 4/ 7 hours away § Cats are excluded from adoption events, leaving them with even fewer chances of finding homes.

Call for Reforms, TVR, and Investigation of AVAS
Given AVAS's ongoing neglect and mishandling of animals, we demand the following immediate reforms:

1. Enact Immediate Reforms. Prioritize life-saving eƯorts rather than resorting to euthanasia as first option.
- Threat cats and dogs equally and list all cats on the website within 24 hours of intake. - Allow volunteers access to take photos/videos of cats in non-adoption areas -Provide treatment for sick cats and improve disease prevention measures.
- Stop euthanizing cats when adoption or space is possible. - Administer vaccines to all cats within 72 hours
- Share urgent lists of cats with rescues and the public. - Respond to adoption and rescue requests before euthanize specific animals. - Stop rejecting adoption requests and keep changing/ adding arbitrary rules against life saving eƯorts.
- Disclose cat outcomes in monthly reports.

2. Implement TVR program for the community cats in Apple Valley City and provide low-cost spay and neuter services for pet owners.

3. Launch an Investigation into AVAS:

It's evident that AVAS is doing the bare minimum to meet legal standards while neglecting the care of these animals. The current approach prioritizes convenience over life-saving eƯorts, leading to unnecessary deaths.

Dear Madam/Sir,
I am writing to express grave concerns regarding the alarming rise in euthanasia rates and the ongoing systemic issues at Apple Valley Animal Shelter (AVAS), especially in light of recent reports and observations.

The situation has reached a critical point, with dozens of cats losing their lives without proper evaluation or consideration for alternatives like adoption or rescue. ### Recent Intensive Killing:
- On August 13th, 11 cats were euthanized.
7 Cats including three kittens were scheduled for euthanasia on 8.17 in AVAS while the adoption event going on, August 17th, is the first day they can legally be euthanized. Cats were not included in the adoption event as usual.
- By August 15th, 19 more cats / families were scheduled for euthanasia, with all of them killed by August 16th except one family rescued.
### Alarming Statistics from AVAS’s June and July Reports:
- **July Report**: Out of 213 cats taken in alive:
- 102 were euthanized.
- 107 have unknown outcomes (either under holding or still listed on the website). - Only 21 cats (10%) were labeled as friendly or placed in the adoption area. - 86 cats (40%) were posted on the AVAS website, leaving the other 60% as "invisible cats"—neither listed online nor placed in the adoption area, contributing significantly to the high euthanasia rate. - Cats listed as "holding" are rarely posted online, and their outcomes remain unknown in subsequent shelter reports.
- **June Report**: Of the 180 cats taken in alive, only 42% were posted on the AVAS website. However, only data from June 1st to June 18th has been disclosed.

Key Observations:

1. No improvement shown even with intake significantly decreased, only 1 cats were added to the list beginning Sep.1

2. Ongoing outbreak since July 2024 till now, with new intakes continuing to be exposed and scheduled to be euthanized in just a few days. Adoption requests were rejected, and random rules have been added that undermine life-saving eƯorts.

3. No urgent lists are provided, despite multiple requests, and cats are often euthanized directly with no chance at adoption or rescue

4. Volunteers are still denied access to take videos or photos of these cats in the back end, meaning they remain invisible from the moment they enter the shelter. a. Poor visibility contributes to the high euthanization rate. Only 5% to 10% of the cats are put in the adoption area and visible to the public
b. A recent request sent to AVAS by a rescue partner asking for a volunteer to take videos on behalf of them was rejected by AVAS

5. The evaluation process at AVAS is merely nominal. only 5% to 10% of the cats are labeled as friendly V.S. 40% to 50% labeled as friendly in Devore Animal Shelter. Recent statistics reveal alarming trends:
 In the week of May 17th, none of the 23 new cat intakes were labeled as friendly or placed for adoption.
 From June 4th to June 8th, only 1 out of 42 adult cats listed on the AVAS website was identified as friendly.

6. No regular evolution /health check was given
 On June 12th, 8 foster kittens were euthanized allegedly due to health reasons, yet their shelter notes had not been updated for several weeks, indicating a lack of proper assessment and care.  Concerningly, shelter notes for these kittens were never updated Most of these kittens were 11 to 13 weeks old but under 2 lbs. Kittens grow rapidly and they could actually be adopted instead of being kept in the shelter. Their outdated shelter note stating they are foster/rescue only ultimately leading to their euthanasia on 6/12 due to health reasons.

7. The 95% labeled as feral were euthanized swiftly when they can legally be Despite ample space available.

8. Urgent Need for Medical Care/Basic care : There is a glaring deficiency in medical and basic care at AVAS:
 There has been monthly major outbreak and cats and kittens were often euthanized in batch for health reason
 New intake has been placed in the same room/ area exposed to ringworm/panleuk the SAME day positive cases left/euthanized
 No vaccine was given for cats labeled as feral and almost NO cat was vaccinated during intake  AVAS euthanizes cats being exposed to panleuk without even testing them  Some cats and kittens scheduled to be euthanized turned out to be “overall healthy” when checked by a vet
 Many cats and kittens “under treatment” however there are no medical treatment records, aside from vaccination records. And then these cats and majority of these cats and kittens were euthanized

9. Euthanasia Despite Adoption/Foster Applications: Adoption (even rescue) requests are often denied by A-V-A-S. The reasons can vary, from claims that "the cat has been exposed to [illness]" to requiring the remote adopter to be physically present. In some cases, by the next day, they simply respond with, "The cat you requested has already been euthanized."

10. Less than 40% cats were posted on AVAS in last three month vs all dogs were posted which means AVAS has the capability to list all the animals
 Only 36% of cats taken in by AVAS in May were listed on the shelter's website, depriving potential adopters of crucial information and contributing to low adoption rates.  In the week of June 17th, no cats with an intake date within the week were added on the AVAS website out of numerous cats in need of adoption, indicating inadequate outreach and communication with the community.
 With no urgent list sent, rescue and adopters does not know which cats are there/ which ones are urgent
 The prohibition of volunteers from non-adoption areas means rescues and adopters have zero visibility of the 95% of cats labeled as feral or non-adoptable.

Based on recent observations and data, it is evident that immediate reforms are necessary to ensure the welfare of animals under AVAS's care and to restore community trust.

Given AVAS's ongoing negligence and mishandling of these animals, we strongly urge the following immediate actions:

I. suspending the intake of cats to AVAS until substantive reforms are enacted, including:

1. Grant access to authorized volunteers to take videos and photos of those 90% of cats in nonadoption areas to increase visibility and promote adoptions.

2. List all cats on the shelter's website within 24 hours of intake  Disclose the outcome of each cat in monthly reports to ensure accountability and transparency.

4. prioritize providing medical care over resorting to euthanasia as a first option:
 Administer vaccines to every cat upon 72 hours from entry to the shelter, including feral ones.  Stop put new intake to exposure area
 A comprehensive medical treatment plan must be provided for the cats currently sick .  measures must be implemented to prevent further intensive and frequent outbreaks  Refrain from immediate euthanasia for health reasons; Maintain a variety of antibiotics and medications to treat illnesses promptly.
 Kittens should be paired up and kept in separate cages instead of free roaming in the same room when there’s no suƯicient medical care.
 Establish a dedicated medical room and consider oƯering on-site veterinary services, potentially through partnerships with veterinary clinics.
 Improve airflow and hygiene protocols within the shelter to prevent the spread of disease.

5. Support Adoption and Rescue EƯorts:
 provide a daily urgent list of cats to rescues and the community.  Adoption and rescue request need to be respond in a timely manner  Discontinue rejecting adoption or foster requests due to random reasons and cease euthanizing cats under evaluation.
 Ensure cats are included in all adoption events and community fairs to maximize adoption opportunities.

6. Those responsible for the mishandling of disease outbreaks must be held accountable.

II. Launch an investigation into AVAS.

It’s becoming clear that AVAS is doing the bare minimum to meet legal standards, while neglecting the actual care of these animals.

Euthanasia seems to be the easiest route for them,and it’s heartbreaking to see life-saving eƯorts pushed aside in favor of convenience.

This isn’t just neglect; it’s a system that’s failing these animals, leading to unnecessary deaths.

Immediate actions need to be taken to address these failures, ensure proper evaluations, and allow for transparency. The community and these animals deserve better.

Thank you for your attention to these urgent matters. I look forward to seeing positive changes that benefit both the animals and our community.

Sincerely,
Donna Schmink
Good afternoon,
I became aware of the animal crisis in the United States a few months ago and was absolutely heartbroken and horrified. There are a shocking amount of high kill shelters in the United States.

In my quest to learn more and make a change, I discovered the horrific actions taken by Apple Valley Animal Shelter towards the animals they should be "sheltering". The shelter is at 70% capacity, however that doesn't stop the mass euthanasia. Stray dogs are given 10 days (usually) and then are killed. Owner surrenders are killed even quicker. Many dogs are not even given a chance at adoption or rescue. How can a shelter murder dogs when they have space?
246025 Fletcher was brought to AVAS on 10/8 as a stray and killed on 10/18. No pending euthanasia warning was given. She was just killed. Volunteers and advocates had no chance to even network this dog.

Within the last two weeks, signs were posted not to give the animal treats or to touch them. Is it too much for an animal to be shown any kindness? How terrified they must be thrown into this environment. Dogs are also not tested with other dogs so there is no way for an adopter/rescuer to know if it needs to be a one dog household.

The shelter hours are also limited for the majority of working people. Is it possible to have evening hours at least one day a week?
This is on the website for AVAS:

Our philosophy is to promote responsible pet ownership, compassion toward animals and safe humananimal interactions. We celebrate partnerships with various individuals and rescue organizations that allow us to increase placement of adoptable animals into permanent loving homes.

Why are so many animals killed when there is space? Where is the compassion? Does AVAS get money for each dog that is killed?
Incredibly horrifying actions taken at AVAS and something needs to change. I beg of you.

Cindy Squadere

Dear Reader,
I am a shelter volunteer for another shelter and writing to voice grave concerns regarding the alarming rise in euthanasia rates and the ongoing systemic issues at Apple Valley Animal Shelter (AVAS). The situation has reached a critical point, in with dozens of cats losing their lives everyday without any proper evaluation or consideration for alternatives like adoption/rescue despite the intake dropping significantly from 325 in August to 182 in September. Live release rate for cats in Sep is as low as 13%! This lack of visibility and transparency contributes significantly to the high euthanasia rate.  As of October 15, about 20% of the cat intaken in Sep has been posted on the AVAS website!  In August 2024 237 cats were euthanized, out of this, 198 (83%) of the cats never showed up on the website for the public!
 Out of 182 cats taken in during September 2024, only 34 were listed on the website, while 75 were marked as “hold” and 65 were euthanized!
AVAS has significantly neglected its eƯorts on the cat side:

Key Observations:

1. Volunteers are still denied access to take videos or photos of these cats in the back end, meaning they remain invisible from the moment they enter the shelter. As a shelter volunteer myself this hurts especially! Shelters denying the oƯered help from volunteers miss out on networking, socialising and staƯ work load relief opportunities as well as transparency.

2. o Poor visibility contributes to the high euthanization rate. Only 5% to 10% of the cats are put in the adoption area and visible to the public
o A recent request sent to AVAS by a rescue partner asking for a volunteer to take videos on behalf of them was rejected by AVAS

3. Even though intake dropped significantly from 325 in August to 182 in September. Live release rate for cats in Sep is as low as 13%.

4. No TNVR or low cost Spay and neuter program provided in Apple Valley City

5. In August, 237 cats were euthanized, with 198 (about 83%) not listed on the AVAS website.

6. 75 cats from September intake remain under hold as of Oct 3.

7. As of October 2, only 12 out of 141 cats taken in September were listed on the site.

8. Ongoing outbreak since July 2024 till now, with new intakes continuing to be exposed and scheduled to be euthanized in just a few days. Adoption requests were rejected, and random rules have been added that undermine life-saving eƯorts.

9. No urgent lists are provided, and cats are often euthanized directly with no chance at adoption or rescue before Oct.17, then all cats listed on the AVAS website were placed on the euth list on Oct.18.

With the majority of them in the adoption area/ being adoptable.

10. Around 20% (or less) of cats are listed on the AVAS website in Aug/ Sep compared to 100% of the dogs which means AVAS has the ability to list all their animals on the website

11. Cats in the back end were euthanized swiftly when they could legally be, despite ample space available.

12. Medical Care is Nominal:

13. o Monthly disease outbreaks result in mass euthanasia for health reasons. o New intake has been placed in the same room/ area exposed to ringworm/panleuk the SAME day positive cases left/euthanized
o No vaccine was given for cats labeled as feral and almost NO cat was vaccinated during intake
o AVAS euthanizes cats being exposed without even testing them o Lots of cats labeled "under treatment" show no medical records beyond their vaccination, yet many are euthanized regardless.
o Some cats and kittens scheduled to be euthanized turned out to be “overall healthy” when checked by a vet
o No regular evolution /health check was given. It’s normal that kittens were not re-weighted in weeks or even months. A kitten adopted out last week was put under observation for more than 2 month

Given AVAS's ongoing negligence and mishandling of these animals, we strongly urge the following immediate actions:

I. enact reforms including:

1. Grant access to authorized volunteers to take videos and photos of those 90% of cats in nonadoption areas to increase visibility and promote adoptions.

2. List ALL cats on the shelter's website within 24 hours of intake  Disclose the outcome of EACH cat in monthly reports to ensure accountability and transparency.

1. Stop euthanize cats not in adoption area when they can legally be  Avoid euthanasia when space is available.
 Implement regular reassessment of cats and timely updates to shelter notes to accurately reflect their behavioral status.

1. Initiate TNVR program for the community cats in Apple Valley City

2. Prioritize providing medical care over resorting to euthanasia as a first option:
 Administer vaccines to every cat upon 72 hours from entry to the shelter, including feral ones.  Stop put new intake to exposure area
 A comprehensive medical treatment plan must be provided for the cats currently sick .  measures must be implemented to prevent further intensive and frequent outbreaks  Refrain from immediate euthanasia for health reasons; Maintain a variety of antibiotics and medications to treat illnesses promptly.
 Kittens should be paired up and kept in separate cages instead of free roaming in the same room when there’s no suƯicient medical care.
 Establish a dedicated medical room and consider oƯering on-site veterinary services, potentially through partnerships with veterinary clinics.
 Improve airflow and hygiene protocols within the shelter to prevent the spread of disease.

1. Support Adoption and Rescue EƯorts:
 provide a daily urgent list of cats to rescues and the community.  Adoption and rescue request need to be respond in a timely manner  Discontinue rejecting adoption or foster requests due to random reasons and cease euthanizing cats under evaluation.
 Ensure cats are included in all adoption events and community fairs to maximize adoption opportunities.

1. Those responsible for the mishandling of disease outbreaks must be held accountable. We request for replacement of the current shelter management including shelter director and key stakeholders.

II. Launch an investigation into AVAS.

It’s becoming clear that AVAS is doing the bare minimum to meet legal standards, while neglecting the actual care of these animals.

Euthanasia seems to be the easiest route for them,and it’s heartbreaking to see life-saving eƯorts pushed aside in favor of convenience.

This isn’t just neglect; it’s a system that’s failing these animals, leading to unnecessary deaths.

Thank you for your attention to these urgent matters. I look forward to seeing positive changes that benefit both the animals and our community.

Lena Weisphal

AVAS has significantly neglected its eƯorts on the cat side. The outcomes for AVAS cats in 2024 may mirror those of 2023 : 7% of cats were adopted from AVAS and 0% rescued out of 3469 intake in 2023 No improvement shown even though intake dropped significantly from 325 in August to 182 in September. Live release rate for cats in Sep is as low as 13%. The lack of visibility contributes significantly to the high euthanasia rate. • No urgent lists are provided, despite multiple requests, and cats are often euthanized directly given no chance at adoption or rescue • Around 20% (or less) of cats are listed on the AVAS website in Aug/Sep compared to 100% of the dogs which means AVAS has the ability to list all their animals on the website but chooses not to - leaving most cats without any visibility. The evaluation process is merely nominal. Till end of Aug, Less than 5% of the adult cats are labeled as friendly and put in the adoption area The 90% to 95% labeled as feral were often euthanized the same day/next day their stray hold expires DESPITE available space. No regular evolution /health check was given, cats often going weeks or even months without re-evaluation and euthanized. No access was granted to volunteers to take photo and videos for the majority of cats not in the adoption area, meaning they remain invisible from the moment they enter the shelter, and no chance to be adopted or rescued • Monthly disease outbreaks result in mass euthanasia for health reasons.Ongoing outbreak since July 2024 till now, with New intakes continue to be exposed to disease like ringworm/panleuk sometimes the same day positive cases left or euthanized. No vaccine was given for cats labeled as feral Multiple cases that AVAS euthanizes cats being exposed without testing them for the disease Lots of cats labeled "under treatment" show no medical records beyond their vaccination, many are euthanized regardless. • Adoption and rescue requests are often denied, citing arbitrary rules. Out of state adoption request was no longer allowed, adoption of pending euth cats are no longer allowed, in person meet and greet requested for all cats including feral ones even adopters lived 4/ 7 hours away Cats are excluded from adoption events, leaving them with even fewer chances of finding homes.

Call for Reforms, TNVR, and Investigation of AVAS Given AVAS's ongoing neglect and mishandling of animals, we demand the following immediate reforms: 1. • • Enact Immediate Reforms. Prioritize life-saving eƯorts rather than resorting to euthanasia as first option. Threat cats and dogs equally and list all cats on the website within 24 hours of intake. Allow volunteers access to take photos/videos of cats in non-adoption areas ....

Provide treatment for sick cats and improve disease prevention measures. Stop euthanizing cats when adoption or space is possible. Administer vaccines to all cats within 72 hours Share urgent lists of cats with rescues and the public. Respond to adoption and rescue requests before euthanize specific animals. • Stop rejecting adoption requests and keep changing/ adding arbitrary rules against life saving eƯorts. • Disclose cat outcomes in monthly reports. 2. Implement TNVR program for the community cats in Apple Valley City and provide low-cost spay and neuter services for pet owners. 3. Launch an Investigation into AVAS: It's evident that AVAS is doing the bare minimum to meet legal standards while neglecting the care of these animals. The current approach prioritizes convenience over life-saving eƯorts, leading to unnecessary deaths. • An immediate investigation is needed to address these failures, ensure proper evaluations, and restore transparency. The community and these animals deserve better. Those responsible for mishandling disease outbreaks must be held accountable.

No improvement shown even though intake dropped significantly from 325 in August to 182 in September.

Live release rate for cats in Sep is as low as 13%. This lack of visibility contributes significantly to the high euthanasia rate.
 As of October 15, about 20% of the cat intaken in Sep has been posted on the AVAS website v.s. 100% of the dog intake posted.
 In August 2024 237 cats were euthanized, out of this, 198 (83%) of the cats never showed up on the website for the public to see.
 Out of 182 cats taken in during September 2024, only 34 were listed on the website, while 75 were marked as “hold” and 65 were euthanized.

AVAS has significantly neglected its eƯorts on the cat side, and the outcomes for AVAS cats in 2024 may mirror those of 2023 (only 7% cats made it out alive out of 3469 intake in 2023):

Key Observations:

1. Even though intake dropped significantly from 325 in August to 182 in September. Live release rate for cats in Sep is as low as 13%.

2. No TNVR or low cost Spay and neuter program provided in Apple Valley City.

3. In August, 237 cats were euthanized, with 198 (about 83%) not listed on the AVAS website.

4. 75 cats from September intake remain under hold as of Oct 3.

5. As of October 2, only 12 out of 141 cats taken in September were listed on the site.

With the majority of them in the adoption area/ being adoptable.

8. Volunteers are still denied access to take videos or photos of these cats in the back end, meaning they remain invisible from the moment they enter the shelter.  Poor visibility contributes to the high euthanization rate. Only 5% to 10% of the cats are put in the adoption area and visible to the public.
 A recent request sent to AVAS by a rescue partner asking for a volunteer to take videos on behalf of them was rejected by AVAS.

9. Around 20% (or less) of cats are listed on the AVAS website in Aug/ Sep compared to 100% of the dogs which means AVAS has the ability to list all their animals on the website.

10. Cats in the back end were euthanized swiftly when they could legally be, despite ample space available.

11. Medical Care is Nominal:
 Monthly disease outbreaks result in mass euthanasia for health reasons.  New intake has been placed in the same room/ area exposed to ringworm/panleuk the SAME day positive cases left/euthanized.
 No vaccine was given for cats labeled as feral and almost NO cat was vaccinated during intake.  AVAS euthanizes cats being exposed without even testing them.  Lots of cats labeled "under treatment" show no medical records beyond their vaccination, yet many are euthanized regardless.
 Some cats and kittens scheduled to be euthanized turned out to be “overall healthy” when checked by a vet.
 No regular evolution /health check was given. It’s normal that kittens were not re-weighted in weeks or even months. A kitten adopted out last week was put under observation for more than 2 month.

13. AVAS does not include cats in their adoption event. In contract, almost every cat rescue hosts adoption events in public places.

Based on recent observations and data, it is evident that immediate reforms are necessary to ensure the welfare of animals under AVAS's care and to restore community trust.

Given AVAS's ongoing negligence and mishandling of these animals, we strongly urge the following immediate actions:

Enact reforms including:

1. Grant access to authorized volunteers to take videos and photos of those 90% of cats in non-adoption areas to increase visibility and promote adoptions.

2. List all cats on the shelter's website within 24 hours of intake:
 Disclose the outcome of each cat in monthly reports to ensure accountability and transparency.

3. Stop euthanize cats not in adoption area when they can legally be:
 Avoid euthanasia when space is available.
 Implement regular reassessment of cats and timely updates to shelter notes to accurately reflect their behavioral status.

4. Initiate TNVR program for the community cats in Apple Valley City.

5. Prioritize providing medical care over resorting to euthanasia as a first option:
 Administer vaccines to every cat upon 72 hours from entry to the shelter, including feral ones.  Stop put new intake to exposure area.
 A comprehensive medical treatment plan must be provided for the cats currently sick.  Measures must be implemented to prevent further intensive and frequent outbreaks.  Refrain from immediate euthanasia for health reasons; Maintain a variety of antibiotics and medications to treat illnesses promptly.
 Kittens should be paired up and kept in separate cages instead of free roaming in the same room when there’s no suƯicient medical care.
 Establish a dedicated medical room and consider oƯering on-site veterinary services, potentially through partnerships with veterinary clinics.
 Improve airflow and hygiene protocols within the shelter to prevent the spread of disease.

6. Support Adoption and Rescue EƯorts:
 Provide a daily urgent list of cats to rescues and the community.  Adoption and rescue request need to be respond in a timely manner.  Discontinue rejecting adoption or foster requests due to random reasons and cease euthanizing cats under evaluation.
 Ensure cats are included in all adoption events and community fairs to maximize adoption opportunities.

7. Those responsible for the mishandling of disease outbreaks must be held accountable. We request for replacement of the current shelter management including shelter director and key stakeholders.

Launch an investigation into AVAS:

It’s becoming clear that AVAS is doing the bare minimum to meet legal standards, while neglecting the actual care of these animals.

Euthanasia seems to be the easiest route for them,and it’s heartbreaking to see life-saving eƯorts pushed aside in favor of convenience.

This isn’t just neglect; it’s a system that’s failing these animals, leading to unnecessary deaths.

Thank you for your attention to these urgent matters. I look forward to seeing positive changes that benefit both the animals and our community.

Yours sincerely
Miranda Feck
City Council Members,
I write to you today to express my deep concern for the lack of leadership demonstrated by the Apple Valley City Council in terms of its responsibility for the Apple Valley Animal Services ("AVAS") Department, specifically Kari Leon whose district includes the shelter. The lack of leadership is resulting in wasted taxpayer dollars and the killing of pets when neither is necessary. AVAS current save rate is about 48%, well below the target 90% most California shelters are either at or very close to achieving. The result of this "leadership" is so subpar its dismal.

Despite repeated correspondence, it is clear to me you are focused on the problem (an an excuse) rather than on exploring viable, cost friendly solutions. There is no one size fits all solution however there is a lot of low hanging fruit that could be implemented at this shelter to at least start moving in the right direction. These solutions are often more cost eƯective than simply catching and killing animals.

If you don't care about animals, that's fine but as city council members you have a responsibility to use taxpayer dollars wisely and you are definitely not doing so. I encourage you to provide the leadership AVAS is lacking. Ask some questions, study their backward, always changing rescue policies and procedures, look at the money they are spending so ineƯiciently!
I'm sure you have to deal with many big problems, this is not one of them! The solutions to this problem are known, cheap and definitely doable.

Diane Thompson
Dear Madam/Sir,
I am writing to express grave concerns regarding the alarming rise in euthanasia rates and the ongoing systemic issues at Apple Valley Animal Shelter (AVAS). The situation has reached a critical point, with dozens of cats losing their lives everyday without proper evaluation or consideration for alternatives like adoption or rescue.