Dog Dies at San Jose Animal Shelter, Sparking Outrage and Calls for Reform

San Jose Animal Shelter Death Prompts Calls for Reform San Jose, CA – The death of a dog at the San Jose Animal Care Center has sparked outrage among animal advocates and prompted calls for significant changes in shelter protocols. The incident, which occurred on Monday, May 12, 2025, involved a dog named Lola, who was found by animal care attendant Courtney Ferro with an IV line and a slip lead tightly constricting her neck and leg. "I pulled the dog out, frantically trying to untangle the lead so the dog could breathe," Ferro recounted in an interview. "It took me a little while. I got most of the knots undone, but a bit was still twisted around her neck." Despite their efforts, Lola died at an off-site veterinary hospital. The San Jose Department of Public Works, which oversees the shelter, issued a statement expressing sadness and stating that an internal review is underway. However, Rebekha Davis-Matthews of Sustain Our Shelters, expressed concerns that this incident highlights a pattern of deficiencies at the shelter. She stated, "I'm horrified, but at the same time I'm not super surprised because the shelter has been having problems for several years now." This incident comes six months after a city audit highlighted major deficiencies at the shelter, recommending over two dozen improvements. Sustain Our Shelters plans to file a complaint with the State Veterinary Medical Board and call for the resignation of the shelter director. The tragic death of Lola underscores the urgent need for improved animal care and oversight within the San Jose Animal Care Center.