Cuts That Cost Lives:
Why We Must Speak Out for LA’s Animal Shelters
In a city known for its creativity, compassion, and community, it’s heartbreaking to see the very institutions that protect our most vulnerable animals facing devastating budget cuts. The recent proposal by Mayor Karen Bass to slash funding for Los Angeles animal shelters is more than just disappointing—it’s dangerous.
Already Underfunded. Already Overwhelmed.
LA’s public animal shelters are stretched beyond capacity as it is. They’re dealing with overcrowding, limited staff, supply shortages, and a constant stream of stray, abandoned, and abused animals needing urgent care. These shelters are not just holding facilities, they are lifelines. They provide food, medical attention,
behavioral support, and most importantly, a second chance at life for thousands of animals every year.
Now, imagine taking away the little support they have left.
Plans to Slash $6.4 Million From LA Animal Services
Mayor Karen Bass is proposing to slash $6.4 million from LA Animal Services, laying off 62 critical shelter employees, the same people who feed, care for, and fight for our city’s most vulnerable lives. Budget cuts would mean fewer staff to clean kennels and care for animals. Fewer resources for veterinary treatment. Less time for adoptions. And in some heartbreaking cases, an increase in euthanasia, not because it’s necessary, but because there’s no other option.
Less Staff = Less Care = More Death
Overcrowded shelters are already in crisis. Animals are already suffering. Cutting staff isn’t just irresponsible, it’s inhumane.
Did you know?
From January to September 2024, 1,224 dogs were euthanized in LA city shelters, a 72% increase compared to the same period in 2023. This surge is directly linked to overcrowding and insufficient staffing.
This isn’t just a numbers game, it’s a matter of life and death.
Who Pays the Price? The Animals.
When shelters lose funding, animals pay the price. They are the ones left in overcrowded kennels. They are the ones waiting longer for food, medical care, or simply someone to show them a moment of kindness.
Every dog or cat that enters the system deserves a fair chance, not to be treated like a budget line item.
These are not just “shelter animals”, they’re future companions, therapy pets, family members, and best friends. And now, they need us to fight for them.
This Is Our Moment to Speak Up
We can’t let this happen quietly. We must raise our voices and demand that the city protect its most voiceless residents. That’s why animal lovers, advocates, and concerned citizens are organizing peaceful protests to send a clear message to city leadership: compassion cannot be cut.
Join Us and Be a Voice for the Voiceless:
Monday, April 28 at 3PM
LA City Hall
200 N. Spring St.
Los Angeles, CA
Bring signs. Bring friends. Bring your voice. Together, we can demand accountability, transparency, and a budget that reflects our city’s values.
What You Can Do Today
- Contact your city council representative and tell them you oppose the shelter budget cuts.
- Share this post and help spread the word.
- Attend a protest and show up for the animals.
- Support local rescue groups and shelters by donating, fostering, or volunteering.
We Can, and Must, Do Better
Los Angeles has the heart, the resources, and the community to protect its animals. Let’s prove it. These shelters are doing everything they can with what little they have. It’s time our leaders do the same.
Let’s stand up for compassion
Let’s stand up for the animals
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