Seal Beach Launches In-House Animal Control Program

SEAL BEACH, CA — Animal services in Seal Beach just got a lot more personal, after the city launched its in-house animal control program to better service the community.

The start of the program marks the end of the city's 20-year relationship with Long Beach's animal control agency, which started in 2004.

According to a statement issued by the Seal Beach Police Department, city officials opted to end the contract after operating cost increases prompted a review of the contract.

The in-house animal control program has been in development for more than a year and launched July 1, a week after city councilmembers OK'd it.

“It is extremely gratifying to see Seal Beach take a leadership role in its city by deciding to operate its own animal services program. No doubt this will bring greater connectedness between the community and their newly established Animal Welfare Department,” Long Beach Animal Care Services Acting Bureau Manager Melanie Wagner said in a statement.

According to the statement, the Westminster Adoption Group and Services — also known as WAGS — was selected as the designated animal shelter for the City of Seal Beach.

"WAGS shelters and cares for companion animals, rescues neglected pets, treats unhealthy and injured strays and educates the community about humane issues and responsible pet care," the statement read.

“We wish to thank the Seal Beach Animal Care Center and the City of Long Beach, their animal control programs, staff, and volunteers for the services they provided to Seal Beach for many years,” said Chief of Police Michael Henderson. “Without their assistance and guidance, we would not have been able to bring animal control services back in-house.”

As of July 1, 2023, to report an animal control-related incident, please contact the Seal Beach Police Department’s non-emergency number (562) 594-7232. For life or-death emergencies, please dial 9-1-1.

For more information about the Seal Beach Police Department’s animal control program, please follow the Seal Beach Police Department on social media @sealbeachpolice. Community members can also email animalcontrol@sealbeachca.gov for questions related to this program.