With Southern California shelters crowded, 42 large dogs flown to New York for adoption

With many local animal shelters experiencing overcrowding, 42 large dog from Riverside County took the trip of their lives, flying from Southern California to New York in hopes of finding new permanent homes on the East Coast.

The transport was coordinated by the Riverside County Department of Animal Services in partnership with animal rescues across the country.

Officials said the large-scale transport required weeks of preparation. Veterinary staff conducted health inspections, while animal care teams secured travel crates and supplies. Field services personnel and volunteers from the Riverside Emergency Action Response System assisted with getting the dogs to the airport.

“Our goal is simple: to save the lives of our furry friends and find them homes with caring families,” said Riverside County Supervisor Yxstian Gutierrez. “By transporting them, we will help ensure every pet has an opportunity to thrive.”

The dogs are among thousands of pets transferred from Riverside County shelters each year. In 2024, more than 6,200 cats and dogs were relocated to rescue partners in the U.S. and Canada, officials said.

The first-class flight for these dogs comes at a critical time as animal shelters across Southern California are struggling with capacity and overcrowding.

“With more dogs entering our shelters than our community can adopt, our shelters are facing massive overcrowding as more pets arrive each day, so this transport flight is vital,” said Daylin Valencia, RCDAS programs manager.

But even with these 42 dogs trading SoCal for the Big Apple, the shelters in Riverside County remain over capacity.

To encourage adoptions locally, the agency has waived adoption fees through March 17.

RCDAS shelters more than 35,000 animals annually across four locations, making it one of the largest shelter systems in the country. More information about adoptable pets and shelter services can be found here.