California has the highest animal euthanasia rate of any state in the nation, but soon it could become the second no-kill state.

Photo credit: Frost Fund

Shelter euthanasia is an ever prominent topic in the world of domestic animal rights. While overall adoption rates have been increasing nationwide, animal euthanasia is still a large problem for many states. Despite this challenge, communities are beginning to implement unique methods to help reduce the number of animal lives lost. However, California remains the state with the highest euthanasia rate, and it’s high time a solution is found.

One place setting an example and inspiring change is the state of Delaware. Since 2018, Delaware has been a “no-kill state”. This means that their shelters do not euthanize animals even if they are unlikely to be adopted. So how do they help animals that aren’t able to find a home? Delaware has free programs in place to help rehabilitate animals with behavioral issues and to aid them in being more fit for adoption. Additionally, they provide anyone who adopts an animal free access to programs that help keep the animal and their adopter happy. With these programs in place and with the help of animal welfare organizations and shelters, Delaware has shown that achieving a no-kill state wide status is possible.

Thankfully, euthanasia rates are also addressed in California on multiple levels. For example, Best Friends animal society, a leader in U.S. animal care, has set the goal of California becoming a no-kill state by 2025. They are working with local shelters, and assist with adoption events to promote the no-kill cause while also advocating to get more animals into loving homes. Additionally, the California government has also seen a push for no-kill. Governor Gavin Newsom succeeded in passing a state budget proposal that donated $50 million to the animal welfare organization, The Koret Program.

However, it’s not just large organizations and government officials that are making an impact. Small local non-profits as well as individuals are pushing for California to become no-kill as well. Every animal saved is progress in working towards the goal of becoming a no-kill state. One example is Frost Fund’s “Red List Rescue” which, as of this article being published, saved a dog from euthanasia and found them a home just a few days ago! Every person has the power to advocate and to further the no-kill cause. Evidence of this is can be seen in the rising adoption rates across America as well as in 2021, when Los Angeles became the largest no-kill city in the country.

Animal euthanasia may be an abundant and seemingly overwhelming issue, especially in California. Luckily, our state is full of people and organizations willing to create initiatives to address this challenge and to save more animals. A no-kill California is possible and we are surely on our way to achieving this goal. Every animal saved along the path is a victory and with continued support from non-profit organizations, individuals, and the government, California can transform from the highest kill state in the nation, to its second no-kill state.