[Supervisor Antonovich] – Additional staffing, new vehicles and equipment, and a new communications center in the Antelope Valley have been approved to enhance the Department of Animal Care and Control’s ability to protect the public from dangerous dogs, announced Supervisor Michael D. Antonovich.

“With additional staffing and resources, the County’s animal control officers will have the tools necessary to patrol our neighborhoods and hold irresponsible owners accountable when they allow their dogs to roam, fight, breed and attack other pets and people,” Antonovich said.

Nearly $775,000 in additional staffing and equipment were approved in the Final Recommended Budget, and an additional $2.4 million has been set aside for adoption in the Supplemental Budget.

On July 1, five additional animal control officers will be deployed and have access to six new vehicles, and protective equipment — collapsible batons, pepper spray, ballistic vests, and duty belts.  In addition, nine new positions will staff the Critical Case Processing Unit team which investigates dangerous dog cases — and the Major Cases Unit will receive three additional officers to conduct in-depth criminal investigations into animal cruelty, neglect, illegal animal fighting, and animal hoarding situations.