City Manager Pat West and several high-ranking members of the Long Beach Animal Control located in El Dorado Park were on hand to announce the re-shaping of management at the facility after mishandlings that led to the deaths of two animals last week.
“We’re in a world-class facility here,” said West. “I can’t think of any higher priority than dealing with this issue.” The City Manager stressed his commitment to the animal lovers of the city.
“If we’ve lost that trust,” said City Manager Pat West, “I want to regain it as soon as possible.”
West and the Animal Control took early steps to do that Tuesday, announcing a restructuring of the management staff. The Animal Control’s facility manager, Wesley Moore, offered his resignation on Monday, and former manager Roger Hatakeyama was approached and talked out of retirement to temporarily serve as manager to the facility that he originally helped to design. Hatakeyama will begin next week, and West stressed his expertise.
The facility houses all animals in open-air cottages such as this, where dogs, cats and other animals have access to fresh air and sunlight.
“I’ve been the Department head for seven years now,” said Ron Arias, Long Beach Director of Health and Human Services, “And several actions were taken immediately. This is the first time a case of mishandling an animal has been brought to my attention. The staff here do an extraordinary job, and I’m very proud of our record of service. This is a good example of a private and public partnership.”
Also, West announced the addition of John Keisler, current management assistant from the City Auditor’s office to assist with management. Lt. Michelle Quigly – former Operations and Criminal Investigations Lieutenant – will accept the position of acting Animal Control Services Officer.
Last week, as a dog was being led into an examination room, a staff member – who has since been suspended – violated protocol by failing to sedate the animal during transportation. When the dog struggled to free itself from the rabies pole being used, it opened wounds and bled all over the room before it was sedated and euthanized. Just days after, protocol was violated again as a euthanized cat went unchecked for up to six hours, and was found to still be alive before being properly disposed.
Madeline Bernstein displays the Cat Room, where a handful of cats are free to roam as they wish in and out of sunlight, climbing different elevations and always with plenty of food to avoid fighting.
“It’s important for us to regain the trust of the neighborhood,” West said.
To help with the process, the team has also hired an independent investigator, who will interview management and other employees to recommend the best strategy in improving the facility.