Canyon County Scrambles to Ensure Animal Care Amid Transition

West Valley Humane Society steps in as Copper Quill withdraws from contract

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

Canyon County, Idaho is facing an unexpected transition in animal care services after the Copper Quill organization withdrew from its contract to take over the county's animal care responsibilities. The West Valley Humane Society has stepped in to work with the county, Nampa, and Caldwell to ensure continued care for the animals, as the county and cities have increased funding to stabilize the shelter after years of underfunding.

Why it matters

This sudden change in animal care providers has left the community concerned about the welfare of the county's animals. The situation highlights the challenges faced by local governments in maintaining consistent and well-funded animal care services, and the importance of collaboration between organizations to ensure the best outcomes for the animals.

The details

Earlier this week, Canyon County residents believed Copper Quill would be taking over the county's animal care responsibilities. However, the group's leadership notified the county that they were withdrawing from the contract. This led to a flurry of social media posts and local media coverage as the community sought to understand the situation and ensure the animals would continue to be cared for.

  • On February 16, 2026, Copper Quill notified Canyon County that they were withdrawing from the animal care contract.
  • This Friday, February 20, 2026, was originally planned to be Copper Quill's last day providing animal care services in the county.

The players

West Valley Humane Society

A local animal welfare organization that has been working with Canyon County, Nampa, and Caldwell to ensure continued care for the animals after Copper Quill's withdrawal.

Copper Quill

The organization that was originally slated to take over animal care responsibilities in Canyon County, but has since withdrawn from the contract.

Canyon County

The local government responsible for overseeing animal care services in the county.

Nampa

One of the cities in Canyon County that has been working with the West Valley Humane Society and the county to ensure continued animal care.

Caldwell

Another city in Canyon County that has been collaborating with the West Valley Humane Society and the county on animal care services.

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What they’re saying

“We were working with Canyon County, Nampa, and Caldwell to ensure the animals would be cared for. The West Valley Humane Society, Canyon County, and Copper Quill agreed their last day would be this Friday.”

— West Valley Humane Society (Social media)

“The events of this week are again for all sides to work on the common goal which is to save Idaho's beloved animals.”

— Kevin Miller, Author (liteonline.com)

What’s next

The dedicated staff and volunteers at the county animal care facility will continue their life-saving efforts beyond this Friday, as the various organizations work together to ensure the best possible outcomes for the animals.

The takeaway

This situation highlights the importance of consistent and well-funded animal care services, as well as the value of collaboration between different organizations and government entities to address challenges and prioritize the welfare of animals in the community.