May 18, 2023

Blue Mountain Humane Society ends animal control services contract with Walla Walla County 

NOTE: For Walla Walla County animal control needs, please call Walla Walla Emergency Services Communications dispatch at 509-527-1960.

Walla Walla - Blue Mountain Humane Society announces the conclusion of its animal control services contract with Walla Walla County, which has been in effect since May 16, 2006. After approximately 17 years of collaboration, this is the first time the terms of the contract have been revisited. 

Efforts were made to renew the contract, with a new proposal submitted to the county on August 18, 2022, which included animal control services. The proposal was presented to the commissioners on November 7, 2022, and subsequent adjustments were made based on their feedback. These adjustments included reducing the number of full-time Animal Control Officers (ACOs) from two to one, as well as decreasing the amount for a second vehicle. The updated contract reflecting these changes was sent to the county on November 21, 2022. 

Despite repeated requests for an update, no response was received from the county, prompting BMHS to take action. On February 8, 2023, BMHS notified the county of its intention to remove the Animal Control Officer (ACO) component from the contract and served them with a 90-day notice. BMHS remained committed to finding a solution that would allow for the continuation of ACO services, and thus presented two contract options: Option A, which excluded ACO services, and Option B, a comprehensive contract that included ACO services, personal protection equipment, training, and personnel. However, unfortunately, the county chose to remove key components of Option B which no longer made it a viable option for BMHS. As a result, on May 11, 2023, BMHS formally notified the county that it would no longer provide ACO services. 

BMHS assures the community that it remains dedicated to providing excellent care for companion animals in Walla Walla County. Sheltering services will continue without interruption, demonstrating BMHS's unwavering commitment to the welfare of animals in need. Additionally, animal licensing services will be maintained. However, it should be noted that BMHS will be adjusting the amount the county is charged for sheltering services to reflect 2023 pricing. 

In 2022, county animal control brought in 57 dogs out of a total intake of 847, and in 2023, the numbers were 14 dogs out of 308. These statistics indicate that the animal control intake is relatively small compared to the overall intake handled by BMHS. 

For questions or comments regarding animal control or sheltering services in Walla Walla County, please contact the Walla Walla County Commissioners at 509-524-2505. If you would like to speak with the commissioner for your area, you may ask for:

  • Jennifer (Jenny) R. Mayberry, Dist. #1

  • Todd L. Kimball, Dist. #2

  • Gunner Fulmer, Dist. #3

Please note that although BMHS will no longer provide ACO services, we remain committed to the welfare of animals. If animals from the county happen to come in, we will continue to provide them with care and assistance, as our dedication to the well-being of animals remains unwavering.

Blue Mountain Humane Society is a nonprofit organization that’s been active in Walla Walla County since 1967. We are a no-kill shelter with a 97.6% live release rate. In 2022, BMHS staff cared for 1,820 animals, provided 3,338 spay/neuter surgeries, returned 438 lost pets to their homes, and found permanent homes for 1,250 companion animals.