Three More Sonoma Cities Cut Ties with North Bay Animal Services

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A growing number of Sonoma County cities are moving to end their contracts with North Bay Animal Services following a 2025 grand jury report that found the provider failed to meet state animal welfare laws and industry standards. The cities of Sebastopol and Windsor are expected to terminate their contracts and pivot to the Humane Society of Sonoma County for interim sheltering, while Cloverdale has also issued an urgent request for new proposals. The shift comes with a significant price tag, as Windsor alone expects to pay an additional $60,000 over the next three months to ensure proper care for local pets.

Why it matters

The exodus from North Bay Animal Services highlights ongoing concerns about the provider's ability to meet legal requirements and industry standards for animal welfare. As more cities seek alternative options, it raises questions about the long-term viability of the regional service and the impact on pet owners and rescue organizations.

The details

Per reports, the Sebastopol and Windsor city councils are expected to terminate their contracts with North Bay Animal Services and instead partner with the Humane Society of Sonoma County for interim sheltering services. Meanwhile, the city of Cloverdale has issued an urgent request for new proposals from animal service providers, signaling its intent to also sever ties with North Bay Animal Services.

• In 2025, a grand jury report found that North Bay Animal Services failed to meet state animal welfare laws and industry standards.
• Over the next three months, Windsor expects to pay an additional $60,000 to ensure proper care for local pets as it transitions to a new provider.

What’s next

The Sebastopol and Windsor city councils are expected to formally terminate their contracts with North Bay Animal Services in the coming weeks, while Cloverdale will review proposals from alternative providers.