The Riverside County Department of Animal Services performed a sweep operation in the eastern Coachella Valley, resulting in 38 dogs being impounded, officials announced Wednesday.
The operation, a routine effort during cooler weather, occurred across Mecca, North Shore, Oasis and Thermal, , with 21 officers and shelter support staff participating, the department said in a statement
The sweep began around 5 a.m. to prevent heat-related injuries to stray animals, according to the statement.
Many of the dogs impounded were small breeds and puppies, which were transported to the Coachella Valley Animal Campus in Thousand Palms, officials said.
Animal Services Lt. Luis Rosa said there also was a door-to-door educational component of the sweep, saying that “the number of dogs impounded could have doubled” without it.
“We issued some warnings and provided education about how we can help, such as mending fences to prevent yard escapes,” Rosa said. “It shows we’re not just enforcing animal control laws, but providing assistance, too.”
Staff and officers visited about 40 properties in total, officials said.
According to Interim Animal Services Director Kim Youngberg, residents often proactively contact Animal Services for assistance if they notice an increase in stray dogs.
“We have been conducting sweeps for many years, but we also need to continue to be a great partner to pet owners in these communities,” Youngberg said.