Title
Discuss Animal Shelter Management Philosophy
Body
This agenda item is prompted by discussions with Los Alamos residents, some of whom are active volunteers in organizations whose missions include animal welfare support. Through these discussions and research in the literature, it is apparent that there are a number of models and philosophical approaches for managing animal shelters. Those models range from the original dog pound concept with minimal services to shelters which offer an array of services and programs. It appears that our shelter falls somewhere in the middle, although that is not entirely clear.
The question has arisen as to whether the current model and operations is structured in such a way that our shelter meets high standards for the humane treatment of the animals and a high level of service to our citizens
A way to assess this question would be to create a citizen committee, working with assigned staff, charged with answering a number of questions and issues that could include:
• Consider various structural options for managing the shelter.
• What is the best model for managing the animal shelter?
• Include cost estimates for various options.
• Provide recommendations for policies and practices that provide for proper animal care, and emotional health.
• What services should be provided?
• What relationship should exist with other shelters?
• Other points as discussed in the work session.
Bridgit Lindquist, Executive Director of the Espanola Valley Humane Society is an invited presenter who will give an overview of how it is managing the Espanola Shelter and general issues associated with managing animal shelters.
Attachments
A - Police Department FY19 Budget