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Culver City Observer
December 27, 2007 - January 2, 2008 Burke Orders Investigation of Carson Animal Shelter A month ago, the Culver City Council entered into a five-year agreement with the Carson animal Shelter despite numerous protests from local residents who wanted a shelter closer to home and one less controversial. There were concerns about how animals were treated at Carson and the death of a puppy there Dec. 5 attracted the attention of Supervisor Yvonne Burke, who provided the following statement: "Unfortunately, a 10-month old puppy died at the Carson Animal Shelter on December 5th. This tragic event has triggered many emails and phone calls from concerned constituents to all levels of County operations. While the exact cause of death has yet to be determined, allegations have been made by the media and advocacy groups attributing the death of the puppy to cold weather, and inadequate shelter and treatment. Regardless of the merits of these allegations, they call into question the overall condition of County shelters and the protocols in place to ensure that the animals that are brought in receive quality care. Upon becoming aware of the situation, I directed my deputies to meet with the Deputy Director of the Carson Animal Shelter to review the conditions and services at the shelter. This meeting made it apparent that some personnel and infrastructure needs must be addressed. The Department of Animal Care and Control has recently been granted $5 million for capital improvements at the Carson, Baldwin Park and Lancaster shelters for new medical treatment and surgery wards for spay and neuter services. However, a thorough analysis of the Carson Animal Shelter's infrastructure and personnel is necessary to ensure that the highest quality of service is being delivered. I therefore move that the Board of Supervisors direct the Chief Executive Officer and the Director of Animal Care and Control to report back at the January 8, 2008 Board meeting:" 1) The outcomes of an investigation into the death of the puppy, describing any potential personnell and infrastructure issues that may have contributed and a corrective action plan to address such issues; and 2) The plan to address all necessary facility improvements at the Carson Shelter, which takes into consideration the condition of the current heating system, washer and dryer, and blankets. |
