San Bernardino County leaders joined Representative Pete Aguilar (33rd District) at the Bloomington Animal Care Center construction site for a check presentation recognizing new federal funding that will support the development of the county’s modern, expanded animal shelter. The event marked an important milestone in the county’s efforts to strengthen animal care services and better serve pets and families across the region.
During the presentation, county officials thanked Congressman Aguilar for securing federal support for key components of the project. The new Animal Care Center is designed to expand capacity, improve on-site services and create a more welcoming environment for adoptable pets. The facility will offer a range of new or enhanced features, including on-site veterinary and adoption services, improved housing for animals, expanded play yards, and dedicated space for volunteer and intern programs. The center will also support stronger partnerships with nonprofit rescue groups and community organizations.
“All animals, regardless of whether they’re strays, abused, pets or abandoned, deserve proper care and attention. And they deserve an opportunity to be healthy and happy and that’s what this facility does,” Congressman Aguilar said.
An adoptable dog was onsite, helping highlight the county’s ongoing work to increase adoptions and connect more pets with loving homes. In 2025, the county’s Devore shelter accepted 6,873 animals, with 4,825 pets adopted through county shelters. The county also partners with more than 1,050 recognized rescue groups. Animal admissions are projected to increase by 14 percent in 2026, reflecting national trends of rising shelter intake.
“This project will strengthen our ability to deliver compassionate, efficient and community-focused animal care,” said Acting Director Janki Patel, Department of Public Health. “We look forward to building on the progress and continue to expand programs and partnerships to better serve our residents and our furry animals here in San Bernardino County.”
The construction site served as the backdrop for the presentation, where county leadership, Animal Care staff, and community partners gathered to celebrate the progress made so far. Officials emphasized that the new center will help expand Animal Care programs, strengthen community engagement and improve outcomes for pets and families throughout San Bernardino County.
Construction is underway, with additional updates to be shared as the project progresses.
For more information about San Bernardino County Animal Care programs, services and upcoming events, visit animalcare.sbcounty.gov.