RivCo Animal Services reports major lifesaving gains in latest quarterly report
Jesus Reyes
Riverside, Calif. (KESQ) – Riverside County Department of Animal Services (RCDAS), along with Outcomes for Pets Consulting Group, released its data from January through September 2025 for the county-wide animal sheltering system.
RCDAS Q3 Report_Jan-Sep_12.22Download
The data covers an important period in the county’s shelter system as it continues to work to solve its overcrowding issue and concerns over euthanasia rates.
The most recent RCDAS daily report card shows that dog space remains at a critical overflow, just under 200%.
The agency has implemented several changes as it continues to work toward a 90% live-release rate.
Key Highlights from the Report:
Cat lifesaving saw the most significant gain in 7 years and for dogs, the highest in 4 years (page 4)
Live Release Rate rose to 81% for dogs (75.3% in 2024) and 72% for cats (62.2% in 2024)
Euthanasia decreased by 1,316 fewer dogs and 630 fewer cats (page 7)
Adoptions climbed 5 percentage points for dogs and 8 percentage points for cats, compared to 2024 (page 6)
Transfers to partner shelters and rescues remained well above national averages, with 3,408 dogs and 951 cats transferred (page 6)
Programs such as Dog Day Out, Ticket to Ride, increased adoption hours, and fee-waived adoptions improved visibility, reduced kennel stress, and increased live outcomes for shelter pets (pages 2, 3, and 9)
“These outcomes show what is possible when we stay focused on the right strategies,” said Fourth District Supervisor Manuel Perez. “Every improvement represents real lives saved, and our teams and partners deserve credit for the work behind these numbers.”
For more information, including how you can adopt or help, visit https://rcdas.org/rivcorise.