The Brief

RIVERSIDE COUNTY, Calif. - Riverside County animal shelters are facing a critical overcrowding crisis, operating at over 220% capacity with more than 1,000 dogs in facilities designed for less than half that number.

The department is urging the public to help alleviate this pressure and has waived all adoption fees.

What we know:

The Riverside County Department of Animal Services (RCDAS) is experiencing severe overcrowding, with its shelters at over 220% capacity. More than 1,000 dogs are currently housed in facilities intended for fewer than 500. RCDAS has zero empty kennels for incoming dogs, and many kennels designed for one to two dogs are currently housing three or more.

The department has already taken steps to encourage adoptions and fostering, including opening

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