Maricopa County Launches Initiative to Support Regional Animal Welfare
In a significant move to enhance animal welfare in the region, Maricopa County has announced the creation of a new nonprofit organization aimed at supporting pets. The Friends of Animal Care and Control will focus on raising funds to bolster the resources available for pets, ultimately reducing the demand on public resources.
Thomas Galvin, Chairman of the Board of Supervisors for District 2, stated, “I want to build a community where every dog has a home.” He emphasized that securing additional funding for county animal shelters can improve animal care while also saving taxpayer money, describing the initiative as a beneficial step for both people and pets in the community.
Recently, the Board of Supervisors voted to enhance the expenditure authority for the Maricopa County Animal Care and Control’s (MCACC) Donation Fund, raising it to $350,000. This adjustment will facilitate the establishment of the Friends of Animal Care and Control.
MCACC Director Debbie McKnight expressed that while donations are currently accepted, the new nonprofit will enable MCACC to engage more effectively with donors and access grants exclusively available to non-profits. She noted, “This new non-profit will have a singular goal: funding programs and services that directly or indirectly serve the homeless pet population.”
The initiative is part of several efforts by MCACC to improve animal care in the area. Earlier this year, MCACC launched the Evaluation & Enrichment Team, which plays a crucial role in providing dogs with both in-kennel and out-of-kennel enrichment activities.
In March, MCACC opened the Everyday Adoption Center (EAC) located in PetSmart, Old Town Scottsdale. The center, capable of housing over 40 dogs, reached a milestone of 1,000 adoptions by November, thanks to its accessible location.
Furthering accessibility, MCACC extended adoption hours by two hours each day in July, allowing more time for potential adopters to find their new companions. August saw a record-breaking day with 202 adoptions, nearly emptying the Everyday Adoption Center.
In November, MCACC organized its largest Care on the Go event at State Farm Stadium’s parking lot, providing over 800 pets with free vaccinations, microchips, and licensing services.
MCACC continues its commitment to animal welfare, maintaining a save rate above 90% for the past eight years, ensuring positive outcomes and permanent homes for the vast majority of animals in its care.
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