Good morning, Redwood City.
A shelter divided – Pets in Need
The newly appointed CEO of the Redwood City-based nonprofit, Pets In Need, Laura Toller Gardner, has faced many challenges. As the contract with the city of Palo Alto nears expiration, the organization has been grappling with strained finances due to escalating labor and medical supply costs and a significant subsidy for its Palo Alto operations. Moreover, internal relations have been tested with the departures of key personnel amid allegations of unfair dismissals. Adding to these challenges, Pets In Need has been at the center of controversy, accused of shifting from a "no-kill" to a "high-kill" stance, a claim supported by increasing euthanasia numbers in official reports. Although critics point to these figures and unfortunate events like 2021's 'Puppygate,' the organization stands firm on its commendable 98% "live release" rate, comfortably exceeding the "no-kill" benchmark of 90%. Palo Alto is set to decide on renewing its animal shelter contract with Pets In Need by Aug. 14. Read it here.
Don't forget to read Dan Calic's blog about the San Carlos train depot.
Thanks to Diana James Cairns's photo of the passion fruit flowers in her backyard.
Michelle