By City Manager Ken Striplin
As the days grow longer and the weather warms up, it is the perfect time to get outside, stay active and enjoy everything our community has to offer — and there is no better companion to share it with than a pet. From early morning walks and weekend hikes to simply relaxing at home, pets bring unmatched companionship and a sense of joy to everyday life. Beyond the emotional connection, pets also encourage healthier, more active lifestyles and can even provide an added sense of security. In fact, deputies often note that a barking dog can be one of the most effective deterrents against a potential break-in, offering both comfort and protection for your household.
Residents have several opportunities to meet adoptable animals in the coming months. Today, Saturday, April 11, during the first-ever Tree-mendous Arbor Day, presented by West Coast Arborists, the Castaic Animal Care Center will host a pet adoption booth at Valencia Heritage Park (24155 Newhall Ranch Road) from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Visitors can meet adoptable animals and speak with knowledgeable staff who will help match families with the right pet. To make adoption more accessible, the City will cover all fees and adopters will only need to pay the $20 licensing fee. In addition, all available dogs have been spayed or neutered, helping support responsible ownership.
Next month, plan to attend the Critter Fair at William S. Hart Park (24151 Newhall Avenue) on Saturday, May 16, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The Fair will bring together local nonprofits, rescues and several LA County Animal Care Centers. What makes this Fair special is that, in addition to dogs and cats, a variety of animals – rabbits, turtles and other small critters – will be available for adoption.
Later in the month, the City will once again partner with the L.A. County Department of Animal Care and Control to host Vet@ThePark on Sunday, May 31, at William S. Hart Park from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. This event provides free pet exams, vaccines and microchipping – further proving the City’s commitment to help residents keep their animals healthy, protected and properly identified.
Another way the City is working towards promoting animal welfare and responsible pet ownership is the annual Animal Care Grant. We recently completed the third annual Animal Care Grant cycle, where six organizations were selected to receive funding in support of animal rescue, care, training and rehabilitation efforts. These partnerships help strengthen the network of organizations working throughout our region, that are dedicated to improving animal well-being and promoting responsible pet care. If you are interested in more information on the 2026 Animal Care Grant, visit SantaClarita.gov/AnimalCare. By working together, our community can provide more animals with the opportunity to find safe and caring homes. For a current list of adoptable pets, please visit animalcare.lacounty.gov/animal-care-centers for more information.
Ken Striplin is the City Manager for the City of Santa Clarita and can be reached at kstriplin@santaclarita.gov.
