The City of Long Beach saw fewer impounds and instances of euthanasia of cats and dogs in 2014, according to officials with the Animal Care Services Department.

In a statement released by Mayor Robert Garcia’s office on Wednesday, officials noted that 2015 is expected to do better, seeing a decline of 9 percent in dog impounds compared to last year and a reduction in euthanasia of 21 percent for cats and 33 percent for dogs compared to this time last year.

In addition, the department’s adoption and release rate has increased from 49 percent to 59 percent for cats, and 78 percent to 84 percent for dogs.

More than 1,500 animals were spayed or neutered this year as well, officials said, which brings the total number to more than 10,000 since the spay and neuter voucher assistance program began in 2009. 

“I’m confident we’ll continue to see fewer animals impounded or euthanized, and more and more animals finding a loving home here in our city,” Mayor Robert Garcia said in a statement. “One animal without a home is one too many.”

The city has also hired a full-time adoptions coordinator to increase adoptions and volunteers.

“Our focus has been on promoting adoption and reaching out to rescue groups,” said Animal Care Services Manager Ted Stevens, in response to the department’s success.

Those interested in volunteering can contact Animal Care Services at 562.570.7387.