Over several years, Orange County Animal Services’ (OCAS) 30-year-old shelter faced criticism for inadequate conditions, with temperatures soaring into the 90s, where the safe temp for dogs in 77F for prolong periods of time. Efforts like a $300,000 ventilation upgrade were made in 2016, but long-term solutions like air conditioning were rejected due to high costs.
In 2020, a $34 million project for a new facility was proposed but indefinitely postponed due to COVID-19. Meanwhile, the animals continue to not get the support they need by our leaders–Commissioner Larry Brinson’s controversial remarks about shelter animals being “damaged.” Overcrowding because of limited resources challenges included an influx of animals due to a fire at a neighboring facility. OCAS needs safer shelter conditions.
Below are news stories that capture some of the trials the residence of OCAS face.
Co-kenneling leads to dog fights, attacks at Orange County Animal Services
#OcasOvercrowding #OcasCokenneling #OcasDogAttacks #OcasEuthanasia
Published: 06/29/2023
Full article: WFTV 9 Investigates – Eyewitness News
Summary:Severe overcrowding plagues Orange County Animal Services, leading them to double up dogs in kennels. Co-kenneling causes numerous dog fights, injures staff, and leads to the euthanization of dogs. Investigative reporter Karla Ray raised concerns about the outdated facility seven years ago, yet plans for a new building have not materialized. Advisory Board members claim there are no other options besides co-kenneling, apart from mass euthanasia, given the shelter’s governmental obligations. The public is encouraged to help by fostering animals.
Ocoee commissioner criticized for calling shelter pets ‘damaged,’ stands by his view
#Puppymills #OcasOvercrowding
Published: 10/27/2021
Full article: Orlando Sentinel
Summary: Ocoee City Commissioner Larry Brinson described shelter animals as “damaged,” causing public outrage. Commissioner Brinson made the comments during a discussion on a city ordinance that overrules a county ban on retail pet sales. Critics argue that this decision benefits shops like “Chews A Puppy” that allegedly source from inhumane puppy mills. Brinson’s stance on shelter animals being “damaged” due to past abuse and neglect was refuted by the Orange County Animal Services, emphasizing that while some animals may have challenges, they are not “damaged.” The shelter recently faced an influx of animals, partly attributed to a fire at a neighboring facility, Pet Alliance of Greater Orlando. Despite the challenges, Animal Services continues to promote the adoption of their many available animals.
What is too hot for dogs?
#OcasTooHot
Published: 08/27/2021
Full article: The Spruce Pets
Summary: Dogs can’t shed their fur like humans can change clothes, making them susceptible to heatstroke. It’s generally unsafe for dogs when temperatures exceed 77 degrees Fahrenheit, especially on hot pavements, which can be 40-60 degrees warmer than the air, risking foot pad burns. High humidity combined with temperatures in the 80s or 90s can also be dangerous for dogs. Signs of overheating in dogs include excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, and bright red gums. Breeds with thick coats, the young, elderly, obese, or brachycephalic dogs are at higher risk of heat-related issues.
Video: Pandemic puts plans to build new Orange County animal shelter on hold
#OcasTooHot #OcasOvercrowding #OcasShelterBudget #OcasNewShelter
Published: 06/09/2021
Full article: WFTV 9 Investigates – Eyewitness News
Summary: Investigative reporter Karla Ray exposed extreme heat conditions inside the Orange County animal shelter in 2016, leading commissioners to consider a new building. A $34 million project to replace the nearly 35-year-old facility was budgeted, but due to COVID-19, plans have been indefinitely postponed. The shelter faces overcrowding and harsh conditions, especially during the hot summer. Beverly Young, an animal advocate, questions the delay, noting that the taxpayer money allocated for the project remains unused. They made interim efforts like upgraded ventilation but never contracted the architect chosen in February 2020 because of the pandemic. The county prioritized other public health and safety projects over the shelter’s reconstruction.
New Orange County Animal Services Building could cost $34 million
#OcasBudget #OcasNewShelter
Published: 02/27/2020
Full article: Orlando Sentinel
Summary: The Orange County Animal Services Building, which is over three decades old, has faced criticism for its inadequate conditions. Not initially designed for its current mission of adoptions, the shelter has been labeled uncomfortable for humans and animals, with temperatures often soaring into the 90s. In response, $300,000 was previously spent on ventilation upgrades to improve conditions. Recognizing the need for an updated facility, the Orange County commissioners have selected the Tampa Bay architectural firm, the Bacon Group, for a new building that might cost $34 million. The design will better cater to the current needs and services, addressing the challenges of the old facility. The location of the new shelter remains undecided.
Orange to spend $300K to battle heat at animal shelter
#OcasTooHot #OcasBudget #OcasNewShelter
Published: 07/12/2016
Full article: Orlando Sentinel
Summary: Orange County Animal Services’ shelter, where temperatures often reach the 90s during summer, is set to receive a $300,000 ventilation upgrade to help cool the kennels. However, county leaders rejected the addition of AC, citing prohibitive retrofitting costs of around $3 million, excluding yearly power expenses. The current shelter, with its high ceilings and cement-block walls, wasn’t built to accommodate air conditioning or to serve its evolved role as a major adoption center. While the ventilation improvements are a step forward, Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs sees them as a temporary solution, emphasizing the need for a new shelter.
Animal advocates push for Orange County to get AC for animal shelter
#OcasTooHot
Published: 07/06/2016
Full article: WFTV 9 Investigates – Eyewitness News
Summary: Animal advocates are pushing for air conditioning in the Orange County Animal Shelter because temperatures reach 90 degrees inside. The county is considering options, with air conditioning costs ranging from $1.5 million to $3 million. An alternative is a $350,000 ventilation system upgrade. Advocates stress the importance of air conditioning for animal welfare.
Improve OCAS Movement 