Part Two: Riverside County Animal Services Director Mary Martin Outlines Vision to Tackle Overcrowding and Restore Community Trust

NBC Palm Springs continues its in-depth conversation with Mary Martin, the new director of Riverside County Animal Services, as she shares her long-term vision for the troubled shelter system.

Martin took over in March following the firing of the previous director, Erin Gettis, amid overcrowding and mismanagement concerns. Speaking candidly to Mary Strong, Martin says her first priority has been to listen and assess what the department and community need most. “My goal is to put a plan in place that will serve the majority of people who care about animals,” Martin explained.

She inherits a crisis: shelters so overcrowded that dogs have been packed three to four per kennel, with volunteers and staff stretched thin. The recent euthanasia of over 80 dogs at the San Jacinto shelter drew heavy criticism. Martin defended the decision, calling it a painful but necessary step.

“We have to face hard truths about our shelter capacity,” Martin said. “Euthanasia should always be the last resort, but we can’t allow animals to harm each other in overcrowded kennels.”

Martin hopes to shift the department’s culture from operating in crisis mode to fostering creativity and problem-solving. A major obstacle, she says, is staffing. “We need a robust volunteer program and staff who are respected and empowered,” she added.

In an effort to boost adoptions, the county has purchased two new mobile vans to take adoptable dogs into the community. Martin is also hiring dedicated staff to lead off-site adoption events at each shelter.

While there has been community hope for achieving no-kill status by this summer, Martin stressed realistic expectations. “I don’t believe we can get there this summer. It takes time, partnerships, and understanding. Every shelter I’ve worked at has eventually reached it, but it doesn’t happen overnight.”

Particularly concerning, Martin said, are large dogs over 40 pounds, which are being surrendered and euthanized at higher rates. “We need to understand why these animals are losing their homes and find solutions together,” she said.

Martin’s message to the community was simple: “Give us a chance. We can’t do this alone.” Currently, 214 dogs at the Coachella Valley Animal Campus are awaiting homes. Martin urged the public to consider adopting, fostering, or volunteering. More information can be found at rcdas.org or by visiting their Thousand Palms shelter.

NBC Palm Springs and Mary Strong will continue to follow Martin’s efforts and provide updates on the progress at Riverside County Animal Services. Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.