Ventura County Animal Services promotes transparency and support for pet owners

The Camarillo City Council held a regular meeting on July 9, 2025, focusing on various community issues, particularly the operations of Ventura County Animal Services (VCAS). The meeting began with a discussion on the challenges faced by VCAS in tracking lost pets and the importance of community engagement in pet recovery efforts.

During the meeting, staff from VCAS highlighted the difficulties in gathering accurate data regarding lost animals, as many pets are brought in without clear ownership information. They emphasized the importance of their website as a resource for pet owners to locate lost pets and noted that staff members are available to assist in both English and Spanish, ensuring accessibility for all community members.

Council members expressed their appreciation for the work done by VCAS, particularly during emergencies such as the recent mountain fire, where staff and volunteers demonstrated exceptional service. Councilmember Tremblay commended the leadership at VCAS for fostering transparency and professionalism among animal services officers, while also acknowledging the need for a new facility to address capacity issues.

The Vice Mayor shared personal experiences with VCAS, praising their efficient online licensing process and the importance of pet identification through licensing and microchipping. He encouraged residents to take proactive measures to ensure their pets' safety, especially during stressful times like holidays.

The meeting concluded without public comment on the discussed topics, but the overall sentiment was one of support for VCAS and its ongoing efforts to serve the community. The council looks forward to future collaborations and improvements in animal services, including potential funding for a new shelter facility.