CEASE AND DESIST
CEASE AND DESIST DEMANDS SENT TO CA MUNICIPAL ANIMAL SHELTERS 2026
In February 2026, Fix Our Shelters has formally issued Cease and Desist legal demands to multiple publicly funded animal shelters following documented concerns regarding unlawful restricted intake practices, service reductions, and potential violations of state animal-protection statutes.
Municipal shelters are taxpayer-funded public agencies. They are legally obligated to provide full-service sheltering, protect public safety, and comply with applicable animal welfare laws. When shelters refuse intake, redirect animals back into communities, or implement policies that result in animals being left uncounted and unprotected, those actions may constitute statutory violations.
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Our legal demands require shelters to:
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Immediately cease unlawful restricted or reduced intake practices
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Resume lawful, full-service intake operations
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Comply with mandatory holding, reporting, and public transparency requirements
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Correct policies that shift statutory responsibilities onto the public or private rescues
These notices are not symbolic. They are formal legal documents that put agencies on record and create a documented demand for compliance. When necessary, we evaluate further legal remedies in coordination with counsel.
Click Here to View Sample Cease and Desist Letter
Fix Our Shelters remains committed to lawful enforcement, operational transparency, and restoring public trust in municipal animal shelter systems nationwide.