Maricopa County announced it’s looking to create a new nonprofit dedicated to supporting shelter pets. The funding received would support services like spay and neutering and vaccinations.
The nonprofit is called Friends of Animal Care and Control. And the goal is to raise funds for homeless pets in the community, while easing pressure on public resources.
Board of Supervisors Chairman Thomas Galvin says the county has a responsibility to protect animals.
“We have to take care of dogs. That is a mandate for county services — just like it is for public safety, just like it is for air quality," he said.
Galvin says the number of homeless pets fluctuates throughout the year.
“We try to get them back into their homes of their owners, but many times we're unable to do that. Also, during periods of economic unease or during a recession, unfortunately, a lot of people either have to move out of state or move to a different community where pets are not allowed," he said.
By creating this nonprofit, Maricopa County’s Animal Care & Control can work closely with donors and explore grant opportunities.
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