Animal‑services funding and new programs approved after foundation donation

Ventura County Director of Animal Services Esteban Rodriguez asked the Board of Supervisors on Feb. 10 to accept a foundation donation and approve associated staffing to expand the Pets for Life program. Rodriguez described a multi‑component request that includes adoption support, trap‑neuter‑release (TNR), and continued operation of a mobile medical unit.

Rodriguez said the foundation donation (presented in the meeting as $3,350,100) would allow the county to create six fixed‑term positions through a third amendment with Humane World and to staff the mobile medical unit previously accepted by the board in 2025. He reported recent mobile‑clinic results — 168 pets serviced at a January clinic and 128 microchips implanted — and that the mobile unit had performed 54 spay/neuters during early use. Rodriguez also said the shelter processed 8,200 animals last year and adopted 4,800 into permanent homes; the requested additional adoption support would expand hours and customer service and improve counseling at intake.

During board remarks, supervisors thanked staff and volunteers and acknowledged a large community need for vaccination, microchipping and spay/neuter services. Supervisor comments highlighted the role of the foundation and volunteers in enabling outreach clinics. The board moved and approved the staff recommendations unanimously.