Orange County NC Website
Browse       Search
2 <br /> Critical components of this perspective include but are not limited to the following: <br /> • A holistic approach to a community as opposed to a narrower focus on animal shelters <br /> whether they be publically run or non-profits. <br /> • Recognition that animal welfare and the human-animal bond depends upon not only <br /> community animal shelters but a variety of actors including policymakers, news media <br /> outlets, veterinarians, and rescue organizations. <br /> • Collaboration between animal shelters and agencies and various community partners. <br /> • Life-saving policies and practices that do not end up being detrimental to the welfare of <br /> shelter (or other) animals. <br /> • Life-saving policies that do not adversely affect the safety of households, neighborhoods <br /> or communities. <br /> This perspective has emerged, in part, as a response to challenges arising from life-saving <br /> efforts over the last few decades. There are some animals that are dangerous to families and <br /> communities and should not be rehomed through standard adoption procedures — and <br /> sometimes not at all. Whether it be due to behavioral challenges or medical problems, animals <br /> should not be kept in shelters indefinitely to avoid euthanasia. The result is not only that their <br /> quality of life deteriorates but that the numbers negatively impact the quality of life for other <br /> shelter animals. <br /> Animal Services staff and the ASAB recognize these concerns and appreciate the holistic <br /> approach taken by the socially conscious animal community perspective. Staff and the ASAB <br /> also believe that many of the operational practices and programs of Animal Services already fall <br /> within this framework, suggesting the extent to which Orange County is itself already a socially <br /> conscious animal community. These practices include the Community Spay/Neuter Program, <br /> Volunteer Program, collaboration with animal rescue groups, veterinarians and other community <br /> partners, and close working relations with the media and numerous local law enforcement <br /> agencies. <br /> Animal Services staff and the ASAB are excited to intentionally work toward making Orange <br /> County an even more socially conscious animal community. Both believe this perspective will <br /> encourage the community to invest in animal welfare and the human-animal bond, foster a <br /> culture of transparency, promote ethical decision making, strengthen mutual respect, inspire <br /> continual learning, and assist with ongoing collaboration. <br /> FINANCIAL IMPACT: The resolution has no financial impact. Events and outreach done in <br /> conjunction with the socially conscious animal community perspective are ongoing and already a <br /> part of Animal Services activities and operations. <br /> SOCIAL JUSTICE IMPACT: There is no Orange County Social Justice Goal impact associated <br /> with this item. <br /> ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: There is no Orange County Environmental Responsibility Goal <br /> impact associated with this item. <br /> RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board approve the attached <br /> resolution and authorize the Chair to sign the resolution <br />