It Takes A Village of Animal Lovers

Happy 15th anniversary, Bay Woof! 

Like birthdays, anniversaries are things some people don’t like to be reminded of. Another year passed means another year older, but personally, I appreciate the opportunity such an occasion presents, both to revisit my previous expectations and to renew my hopes for the future. 

Nearly 12 years ago, I made the decision to apply to the Animal Control and Welfare Commission of San Francisco. I had my reasons: a desire to engage with my city and its people and pets; to learn a bit about our local government workings; and to demonstrate a commitment to a cause that is dear to me. 

And so, with these ideals and a two-page completed  form, I submitted my application. Soon after, I was contacted by the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors to attend a hearing. I spoke a few prepared remarks and the votes were cast. Welcome, Commissioner!

One of the most important things I’ve learned while serving on the Animal Commission is how many people from all walks of life are working to improve the lives of the living creatures in our town. These include professionals, such as the veterinarians who serve on our commission, as well as countless volunteers, nonprofit groups, and dedicated city staffers. 

In February, the commission invited Lieutenant Ellie Sadler of SF Animal Care and Control to share her experiences with us and the public. She recounted her work rescuing all sorts of animals throughout the city, including many skunks. I’ve had my share of skunk interactions in San Francisco, but I never thought to approach one in distress. How fortunate we are to have Lieutenant Sadler on the job. 

This past November, Officer Irvin Huerta joined us to talk about his work at the Vicious and Dangerous Dog Unit of the San Francisco Police Department. When a pet is harmed by another pet, Officer Huerta investigates, then allows the parties to present their cases to him. With wisdom and compassion, Officer Huerta determines the best way to keep all dogs safe, including those whose behavior may need work. Often his job includes educating pet guardians, too. 

While I’ve learned a lot from the professionals in animal welfare, volunteers have also opened my eyes to a world far beyond the familiar cats, dogs, and coyotes. Among the animals volunteers have educated us about are pigeons, rats (domestic and feral), pigeons, elephants, whales, and frogs. 

Of course, our city’s vibrant dog community is always a welcome presence at commission meetings, advocating for more space and freedom on the federal lands of the Golden Gate Recreation Area. These tireless folks have kept an eye on the creation and rehabilitation of dog parks within our city, and they have educated us on the need for care and compassion for those among us who are unhoused and whose pets provide needed support. 

Before joining the commission, I was largely unaware of the many feral cats that live throughout San Francisco. The community of men and women who care for these animals are regular speakers, sharing the need for our local shelters and leaders to allow these felines to live safe and healthy lives. 

An anniversary is an occasion to reflect on the passage of time. It is also an opportunity to reexamine our original goals. For years, the San Francisco Animal Commission served as a public forum for animal lovers, those committed enough to come to City Hall each month to speak out, speak up, and listen. But once the pandemic hit, we shifted our monthly meetings to a remote platform. Technology has brought its own challenges, but at its best, it allows access to voices and ideas that might not otherwise be heard.  We hope to incorporate some of these positive lessons of the past two years into our monthly meetings in 2022 and beyond. 

It truly takes a village - or in our case, a city - to care for all the animals we share our urban world with. Bay Woof has been a vital part of that effort for the past 15 years, shining a light on crucial issues and serving as an invaluable  resource for dog lovers everywhere, regardless of income or zip code. 

Congratulations, Bay Woof, from your friends on the Animal Commission!