In the first month of the new year, our South LA Shelter Intervention Program prevented 91 family pets from entering the shelter. Being there to talk to people, and more importantly to listen to them, made it possible for us to provide services that changed the fate for these 91 animals. Here’s what it took to make this possible:

64% of our clients needed help with medical expenses. The problems ranged from skin treatments to ear infections, from paying for X-rays to getting blood tests to removing tumors. Many animals required treatment for upper respiratory infections, Parvo, broken bones and so much more. More often that not, the cases were emergencies, with the pet being in extreme pain. In situations like this, the owner usually doesn’t know where else to turn but the shelter. We assisted 15% with spaying/neutering their dogs or cast.

9% of the families needed help getting their cat or dog out of the shelter. It costs money to redeem a lost pet, and in order to send them back home together, we helped pay the fees. The most common reason for being impounded in the first place was that their dog accidentally got out of a gate.

7% of people had a senior or terminally ill pet. We sent them to our local vet for care or humane euthanasia, instead of watching them get surrendered to the shelter. We are grateful for the opportunity to help old animals pass in a calm environment, surrounded by the people who knew and loved them.

We were able to help about 2% of those we served with pet deposits, making it possible for them to keep their dog or cat. Another 2% had no alternative other than rehoming their pet. We supported them through it. Lastly, 1% needed dog training to solve their issues. We offer training classes every Saturday morning, free of charge, not only to people who are facing extreme challenges with their dogs, but to the entire South LA area. Our dog training classes have been going on for years, offering community as well as bonding between pets and owners.

So that’s 91 animals who avoided shelter life, avoided clogging up the system further, and were able to stay in their first homes, their forever homes. We want to thank our major funder Found Animals Foundation, because without their support this program would not function, and we would not be able to do what we’re doing. We also want to thank LA Animal Services staff and volunteers who are terrific partners to work with and who allow us to be in the shelter, helping families with pets. And of course, we’d be remiss if we didn’t thank all of YOU again and again. You, who donate to support us and believe in our efforts. Without you, we wouldn’t be able to offer so many options and such a range of resources. You give us the confidence, and the energy. You make us stronger.

Because everybody needs help sometimes. We know it. You know it. Thank you for trusting us to be that help.