San Diego, CA

Why San Diego Animal Shelters Are Severely Overcrowded | San Diego Magazine

Published

2 days ago

July 2, 2024

Why San Diego Animal Shelters Are Severely Overcrowded | San Diego Magazine

For just over a year, local animal shelters have been sounding the alarm that there are more pets than they can support in need of permanent homes. This has happened before, but typically during brief periods like kitten season. This time around, the situation is unique in that organizations are struggling to adopt out dogs, especially large breeds such as huskies, German shepherds, and pit bulls (who also have big litters).

“Dog overpopulation in shelters right now is something we’ve never seen before,” says Dr. Gary Weitzman, CEO of San Diego Humane Society (SDHS).

Courtesy of San Diego Humane Society

According to Stephanie Filer, executive director of the national organization Shelter Animals Count, the usual flow of animals in and out of shelters has fallen out of balance since the pandemic. “We have had more pets entering shelters than have left,” she says. “The number of days that large dogs are waiting to get adopted has doubled.”

Experts are unsure why adoptions have flatlined, but the reasons for increased pet surrenders are clear.

“When owners are surrendering [animals], it’s because they literally cannot afford to care for them or cannot find a place to live with them,” Filer says.

Landlords frequently bar pets over 50 pounds or restrict certain breeds. Amid a housing crisis, renters may not have the luxury of choosing affordable residences that also accommodate large dogs. In a 2021 report, Michelson Found Animals claims 8.2 million pets could find homes if these restrictions were lifted. The organization also found that housing led 14 percent of surveyed renters to surrender animals.

“As a society, we really want people to be able to have animals and enjoy that companionship and not have those resource issues be a factor, but they are certainly what’s driving the overcrowding,” says Jill Tucker, CEO of California Animal Welfare Association (CalAnimals).

San Diego animal shelter vets at San Diego Humane Society examining a dog — Courtesy of San Diego Humane Society

Of course, housing isn’t the only economic concern contributing to shelter overcrowding. The New York Times reported last month that the cost of veterinary care has shot up more than 60 percent in the past 10 years. Meanwhile, the number of vets has dropped—the staggering debt, relatively paltry salary, and high stress of the profession has led to veterinarian shortages across the US.

Shelters are affected by the vet shortage, too. According to a recent survey of California animal welfare organizations by the Program for Pet Health Equity at the University of Tennessee, 64 percent of organizations cannot provide certain kinds of veterinary care, such as spaying and neutering, to animals at their facilities because they are unable to fill vacant veterinarian positions or afford or even find appointments at nearby vets.

At the beginning of the pandemic, many vet surgeons ceased spay and neuter procedures amid a PPE shortage in which safety equipment was saved for human medical care. Large-scale spay and neuter programs that often fixed upwards of 50 animals in a single day were paused due to the health risk of congregating in groups.

San Diego animal shelter like San Diego Humane Society are overcrowded resulting in animal transfers — Courtesy of San Diego Humane Society

Previously, SDHS, one of the largest shelters in the nation, received puppies transferred from Arizona and parts of the American south each year, taking pressure off shelters in those regions and allowing San Diegans to adopt young dogs. For the first time, SDHS has not been able to accept transferred animals because there are puppies entering the shelter system locally. As of May 30, “we’ve got about 140 puppies right now and they’re all from San Diego,” Weitzman says.

“For [SDHS] to not be able to help organizations who previously depended on them, because, rightfully, they need to help the animals in their community first, it does create this ripple effect across the country,” Filer adds.

Currently, SDHS is building a new veterinary facility for mass spay and neuter care, but in the interim, the organization, which performs 80 to 100 sterilization procedures per day already, has had to cut back on providing that service for pet owners in the community because they have so many animals in their own care. This only leads to more unaltered pets in the community in the future. “It’s just this exponential math problem,” Tucker says.

Amid this national crisis, overpopulated shelters face thorny decisions: Will they limit their intake of abandoned animals; house more animals in subpar conditions, like hallways lined with cages; or euthanize pets so the remaining animals have enough space? SDHS has a no-euthanasia policy, but reps have stated that overcrowding causes behavior problems, risks the spread of contagious diseases, and leads to immense stress on staff and animals.

California's first Adopt-A-Pet-Day happening in 2024 to promote pet adoptions in San Diego — Courtesy of California Adopt-A-Pet Day

“Shelters get stuck in a position where there’s not a good outcome,” Tucker says. She helped spearhead the first ever California Adopt-A-Pet Day on June 1, when 3,609 animals across the state found homes.

Tucker and Weitzman are also part of a coalition of animal welfare agencies lobbying for the state legislature to pass bills to address the problem. Potential solutions include requiring vet schools teach students how to perform mass spay and neuter procedures and restricting landlords’ ability to enact pet bans.

The best way for the average person to help? Adopt a shelter pet.

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San Diego, CA

Jill Ellis says allegations of poor work environment at NWSL's San Diego Wave are 'false'

Published

2 hours ago

July 4, 2024

Press Room

Jill Ellis says allegations of poor work environment at NWSL's San Diego Wave are 'false'

SAN DIEGO (AP) — San Diego Wave President Jill Ellis called allegations of a poor work environment made by a former employee of the National Women’s Soccer League team both “false” and “personally damaging.”

Ellis released a statement to The Associated Press on Thursday in response to a social media post by Brittany Alvarado, a former video and creative manager for the team. Alvarado called on the NWSL to remove Ellis, the former U.S. national coach.

Alvarado alleged the workplace was discriminatory and said it took a toll on her mental health in a lengthy post on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Ellis said mental health concerns are a priority for the club and it has support measures, including an employee assistance program. She added that when allegations of mistreatment have occurred, the team has investigated.

“In addition, when appropriate, independent third parties have assisted us in evaluating our workplace. At no time have those evaluations uncovered any wrongdoing by the club,” Ellis said.

Ellis, who coached the U.S. team to World Cup titles in both 2015 and 2019, added that the Wave is committed to building a strong and unified club.

“What we do is all about fostering a culture of respect, inclusivity, and excellence. The false accusations in (Wednesday’s) post are not only personally damaging but also take away from the incredible work and progress we’ve achieved together as a team,” Ellis said in the statement.

The Wave called Alvarado’s allegations inaccurate and defamatory. The team said it was looking into possible legal avenues available to address the matter.

Wave forward Alex Morgan, who played for Ellis on both of the World Cup-winning teams, issued a statement on social media in which she said she was disappointed by the allegations.

“As players, we have worked hard to build a team that is surrounded by an inclusive, positive and safe environment,” Morgan said. “But it’s important to me that we are creating that environment for both players AND staff throughout the entire organization. Equity in the workplace is something I have and will continue to advocate for.”

___

AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer

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Big weekend for San Diego women’s soccer

Published

9 hours ago

July 4, 2024

Press Room

Big weekend for San Diego women’s soccer

The San Diego Wave will look to turn its lackluster season around as it travels to Portland on Friday at Providence Park. After winning the Supporters’ Shield last year with the best regular season record, San Diego has not tasted victory in its last eight matches and is coming off a 3-0 home defeat to the Chicago Red Stars on June 28.

That was the first game since Casey Stoney was dismissed as head coach a few days prior with Paul Buckle being named as interim immediately after. The Wave will be facing a team in Portland that is winless over its last three games but sits in fifth place in the NWSL standings.

The Thorns and the Wave played each other twice during the 2023 regular season with San Diego coming out victorious 2-0 in the second meeting after the sides settled for a 1-1 draw in the first. San Diego has nine games left this as it tries to get back into playoff contention and reach, at least, the eight-seed that is held by Bay FC, which would guarantee a third-straight postseason birth.

SAN DIEGO STRIKERS

The San Diego Strikers earned another trip to the WPSL playoffs and will play FC Premier Women on Saturday at San Diego Mesa College. The team, led by head coach Ray Taila, earned its spot after finishing in second place in the Plymouth Division with four wins, three losses, and one draw. The Strikers outscored opponents 18-9 over its eight regular-season matches led by the efforts of forward and leading scorer Kiera Bocchino.

“This team is way stronger than last year,” she said. “Last season we had trouble putting goals away and finishing. We made some connections and got more growth. That helps build team spirit and team comradery.”

This will be the first meeting between the Strikers and FC Premier Women, which finished with four wins, one loss, and three draws. The Strikers will try to avenge and leave behind the defeat at the hands of Miss Kick FC at Mission Bay High School, which brought to an end its 2023 season in controversial fashion.

Photo by David Frerker

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San Diego, CA

4th of July Fireworks in Seattle, New York, Dallas, San Diego and more: Top locations to explore

Published

16 hours ago

July 4, 2024

Press Room

4th of July Fireworks in Seattle, New York, Dallas, San Diego and more: Top locations to explore

The Fourth of July is approaching, just hours away, and one thing we absolutely cannot forget are the fireworks, one of the biggest form of celebration to mark America’s Independence Day. We all have cherished memories of oohing at the sky filled with dazzling lights and colors. This year, why not make some new memories that will last a lifetime? We’ve got a guide to the hottest spots across the country to witness incredible fireworks displays. From iconic cityscapes to stunning waterfront locations, there’s something for everyone.

US Independence Day celebrations conclude with a spectacular evening fireworks show above the National Mall. (AP)

Where to watch Fourth of July fireworks in Seattle

From the picturesque San Juan Islands, where you can catch a glimpse of Anacortes’ spectacular fireworks show from a distance, to the beloved tradition of Seafair’s fireworks, here are few top places to explore.

Seafair Fourth of July celebration

The Seafair Fourth of July festival is preparing to light up Lake Union’s heavens with an amazing 20-minute fireworks show provided by Western Display Fireworks. This year’s celebration in Seattle will feature more than 7,000 pounds of fireworks.

Also read: Washington D.C. fireworks for 4th of July 2024: Top Spots to Celebrate

Parks and heights

While Bhy Kracke Park and Kerry Park are popular choices, a lesser crowded park may offer you a memorable experience. Other places to explore are Hood Canal, Lake Union etc.

Friday Harbor

The island of Friday Harbor holds a unique fireworks celebration over its harbor. The celebration includes Pig War Picnic, a nod to an odd period in Northwest history.

Where to watch Fourth of July fireworks in Dallas

Dallas has a variety of exciting options to celebrate America’s independence day.

Klyde Warren Park

Looking for a fun-filled family outing? Klyde Warren Park is the place to explore. Spread out your picnic blanket and enjoy live music, delicious food vendors, and a dance party before the grand finale – a spectacular fireworks display that will leave you awestruck!

Downtown Arlington:

Craving a vibrant, patriotic atmosphere? Head over to downtown Arlington! Soak up the sunny vibes and festive energy throughout the day, then settle in for a magnificent fireworks display that will illuminate the night sky.

Also read: Los Angeles 4th of July fireworks 2024: where to watch the best displays

Kaboom Town

Kaboom Town is legendary for its incredible fireworks shows. This year, witness a dazzling 25-minute display preceded by an exhilarating airshow featuring skydivers, historic warplanes, and daring stunt pilots taking flight!

Liberty By The Lake Festival

Kick things off with a 5k or a one-mile fun run early in the morning. Then, cheer on the participants of the parade at 9:15 am. End your day with a relaxing festival featuring delicious food trucks and lively music at The Athletic Club starting at 6 pm.

Other options: Independence Day at Reunion Tower, Fair Park Fourth, Lone Stars & Stripes Fireworks Festival.

Where to watch Fourth of July fireworks in San Diego

San Diego County provides a lively array of choices for commemorating Independence Day with fireworks and parades.

San Diego’s Big Bay Boom

San Diego’s Big Bay Boom stands out as a major fireworks extravaganza that matches its wild hype on the West Coast, attracting a large expected audience of up to half a million attendees. Fireworks are accessible from a variety of places along the bay, offering many viewing areas.