As of the New Year, the Brandywine Valley SPCA took over animal control services in DC, ending nearly 50 years of the Humane Rescue Alliance's leadership. The Brandywine Valley SPCA, based in Pennsylvania, is now working with DC Health to manage animal welfare in the district, as reported by DC News Now.
Starting on Wednesday, the Brandywine Valley SPCA took over all animal control and care services in the district, including shelter operations, medical care, and adoptions. The city's animal shelter at 1201 New York Ave NE is now under their management, with services beginning on Thursday. A new facility at 4 DC Village Lane SW is being developed to help with overflow. CEO Adam Lamb stated, "We are proud to bring our expertise in animal care, progressive sheltering policies, and lifesaving programs to the nation's capital," and encouraged public support: "We now need the community, more than ever, to help support this work by getting involved. Adopt, volunteer, foster, or donate and join us on our mission to help animals in need," as stated by WUSA9.
In 2023, the organization cared for over 17,000 animals and achieved a 93% live release rate, working towards a "no-kill" status. Their focus is on reducing shelter stay times, with CEO Lamb stating, "We’re looking at each individual animal and the best possible way to move them through the sheltering system." They are also strengthening partnerships with local rescues. For D.C. residents, the new contact number for animal services is 202-888-PETS (7387). Lamb emphasized the importance of community support, saying, "It is vital that the community supports the work that we’re doing, because we will be taking in thousands of animals through this contract and partnership with D.C. Health," according to WTOP.
