The City of Citrus Heights has taken a bold step to improve animal services for its residents by partnering with Sacramento County’s Bradshaw Animal Shelter. This collaboration, approved by the City Council on August 14, 2024, is all about making life better for pets and their humans in the community. Let’s dig into what this partnership means and how it’s shaking things up for animal lovers in Citrus Heights.
What’s the Deal?
In simple terms, the agreement between Citrus Heights and Bradshaw Animal Shelter means more resources, better services, and a stronger safety net for animals in need. While Citrus Heights already has its own Animal Services Unit, this partnership allows the city to tap into Bradshaw’s expertise and facilities. Consider it a tag team effort to handle everything from stray dogs to adoption services.
Bradshaw Animal Shelter, located on Bradshaw Road in Sacramento, is well-known for its excellent care of animals and community outreach programs. Citrus Heights can offer its residents access to these expanded services without reinventing the wheel by joining forces.
Animal Emergencies? Call 311!
One of the coolest things about this partnership is the integration of Sacramento County’s 311 Connect system. Residents can now report animal-related issues 24/7 using this service. Whether it’s a stray dog wandering your neighborhood or a raccoon causing chaos in your backyard, help is just a phone call—or app download—away.
Here’s how you can use 311 Connect:
- Dial 311 (or 916-875-4311 if you’re outside Sacramento County).
- Visit 311.saccounty.gov.
- Download the 311 Connect app from your favorite app store.
This system makes it super easy to get help fast, whether it’s reporting a barking dog or asking for advice on wildlife concerns.
Services You Should Know About
This partnership isn’t just about stray animals—it covers a wide range of services that make life easier for pet owners and animal enthusiasts alike. Here are some highlights:
- Stray Animal Pickup: If you find a lost dog or cat, Animal Services Officers will check for microchips or licenses and try to return the pet directly to its owner. The animal will be taken to Bradshaw Animal Shelter if that’s impossible.
- Adoptions: Looking to add a furry friend to your family? Bradshaw Animal Shelter has plenty of adoptable dogs, cats, and other animals waiting for their forever homes.
- Licensing: Don’t forget that pet licenses are required in Citrus Heights. You can easily purchase or renew them online or by mail.
- Dead Animal Removal: For those less glamorous moments, officers can remove deceased domestic animals from public roadways. Another department handles wildlife removal, but it can also be reported through 311.
Wildlife Woes? Here’s What to Do
Living in a diverse area like Citrus Heights means sharing space with all kinds of wildlife. While the city offers limited wildlife services, they encourage residents to coexist peacefully with their wild neighbors. Need help? The city provides resources online for handling everything from raccoons to dead birds that might carry West Nile Virus.
Pro tip: If you’re disposing of dead wildlife yourself (not exactly a fun weekend project), wear gloves and double-bag the animal before placing it in an outdoor garbage bin. Safety first!
Volunteers Are Always Welcome
Love animals but don’t have room for another pet? Consider volunteering or fostering through Bradshaw Animal Shelter! From walking dogs to helping with adoptions, there are plenty of ways to get involved. It’s a great way to give back while getting your daily dose of puppy kisses or kitten cuddles.
Why This Matters
At its core, this partnership is about building a stronger community where people and animals thrive together. By leveraging Bradshaw Animal Shelter’s resources and expertise, Citrus Heights is stepping up its game in animal care. Whether you’re a pet owner, an animal lover, or just someone who appreciates good governance, this collaboration is something worth celebrating.
So next time you see an Animal Services Officer cruising through your neighborhood or hear about an adoption event at Bradshaw Animal Shelter, give them a nod—or maybe even stop by to say thanks. After all, they’re working hard to make Citrus Heights a better place for everyone—two-legged and four-legged alike!
Source: citrusheights.net
Header Image Source: citrusheights.net
