Maricopa County Forms Nonprofit to Boost Support for Shelter Pets

In a compassionate move to strengthen animal welfare, the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors has voted to create a nonprofit organization aimed at supporting shelter pets and easing pressure on public resources.

The newly formed nonprofit, The Friends of Animal Care and Control, will work alongside Maricopa County Animal Care and Control (MCACC) to fund programs and services that directly or indirectly benefit homeless pets. The board also approved an increase in the county’s animal care donation pool, raising its capacity to $350,000 to help launch the nonprofit.

“I want to build a community where every dog has a home,” said Thomas Galvin, District 2 Chairman of the Board of Supervisors. He emphasized that expanding funding beyond the general fund not only improves care for animals but also saves taxpayer money.

MCACC has helped more than 90% of its shelter pets find permanent homes over the past eight years. One of its standout initiatives is the Everyday Adoption Center, located inside PetSmart in Old Town Scottsdale. Since opening in March, the center has housed over 40 dogs and celebrated its 1,000th adoption milestone in November.

Debbie McKnight, MCACC director, noted that while donations are currently accepted, the new nonprofit will allow for deeper collaboration with donors and access to grant opportunities that are only available to nonprofit entities.

“The Friends of Animal Care and Control will allow MCACC to work more closely with donors,” she said, “and it will provide opportunities for grants that are only available to non-profits.”

This initiative reflects Maricopa County’s commitment to animal welfare and community-driven solutions, ensuring that both two- and four-legged residents benefit from expanded care and resources.

Source: Reporting adapted from KTAR News.