At today’s Board of Supervisors meeting, Supervisor Kathryn Barger honored the West Ranch High School cross country team for their “Run with Dogs” program.
The distinction recognized the team’s unique initiative, which combines their love of running with a way to spotlight the dogs eligible for adoption from the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control’s Castaic Care Center. The student athletes regularly take dogs on runs to get the pets exercise and promote them for adoption.
“Our County’s animal shelters are facing big challenges, including overcrowding and limited space, so I appreciate community-driven efforts like this one,” said Supervisor Kathryn Barger. “This program gives dogs in the local County animal care center some much-needed exercise, enriches their lives with time to explore outside, and promotes their availability for adoption. I am so proud of what these thoughtful students have accomplished. Their work is truly making an impact and helping animals in need, especially in our North County care centers where so many large dogs are awaiting loving families. Their efforts show that we can all make a difference.”
Though the program is fairly new, it has already helped find forever homes for 10 dogs.
“It’s impossible to know how many people have been reached due to this program,” said West Ranch Cross Country Coach Karen Cirricione, who accompanied the student athletes today and also received a scroll of recognition. “The biggest thing I have to say to my athletes is how grateful I am for their compassion and lovingness. And to those hearing this message, please adopt a dog.”
Supervisor Barger was joined by West Ranch High School representatives on stage, including Assistant Principal Tracy Moscoe, Coach Karen Cirricione, and student athletes Skylar Adams, Eric Campos, Breanna Karidis, and Mazzlyn Ridder.
Photos from the scroll presentation can be viewed here. Video of Supervisor Barger’s comments is available here and video of Coach Cirricone’s comments is available here.