New Leadership for L.A.’s Animal Shelters
In a significant move for animal welfare in Los Angeles, Mayor Karen Bass has announced the appointment of Gabrielle Amster as the new leader of the city’s Animal Services. This decision comes in response to growing concerns over overcrowding and the treatment of animals within city shelters.
Amster has a rich background in animal welfare, having served as the director of the Wallis Annenberg PetSpace from 2021 to 2025, where she notably increased adoption rates and enhanced access to spay and neuter services. Her new role, pending City Council confirmation, places her at the helm of one of the nation’s largest animal shelter systems, which includes six shelters and animal control officers that manage approximately 60,000 animals annually.
Focus on Improvement and Community Care
Mayor Bass praised Amster for her nearly 20 years of dedication to innovative practices in animal welfare, stating, “Gabrielle Amster has spent nearly two decades advancing innovative approaches in animal welfare, building strong teams, and improving lifesaving outcomes.” Bass expressed confidence in Amster’s ability to lead the department towards improved services for both the animals and the communities that care for them.
While Amster refrained from comments during her initial outreach, she shared her commitment through a statement, emphasizing her goal of providing “the highest standard of care” for all animals in Los Angeles. “The people and pets of Los Angeles deserve every opportunity to thrive together,” she affirmed.
Before her role at the Wallis Annenberg PetSpace, Amster was the executive director at the Palm Springs Animal Shelter and participated in board activities for the California Animal Welfare Association.
The position comes at a critical time, following the resignation of previous Animal Services director Staycee Dains, which occurred amid significant criticism in 2024. Currently, Annette Ramirez is acting as the interim general manager while the department navigates ongoing challenges.
One pressing issue Amster will need to address is the alarming rise in euthanasia rates. In just the first two months of this year, 284 dogs were euthanized within city shelters, marking a disturbing 39% increase compared to early 2025, despite a 6% drop in incoming dogs. This trend has raised alarms among volunteers and community members, who have reported concerns regarding poor conditions leading to kennel stress and a decline in animals’ behavior, occasionally resulting in premature euthanasia.
