I have been very vocal about how I have felt about the Lancaster County SPCA in the past. Their treatment of Cash while he was in their care upset me, but what upset me more was how they handled my complaint. What the former director used as a defense proved to be more of a look into the inner workings of the shelter. And today, the news broke that this very shelter was closing (source).
Between the information that I had learned through my personal experience, stories I have heard, and from the media backlash surrounding Libre's case (that eventually helped create Libre's Law), it did not surprise me that they were closing. But, even as someone who has been outspoken about the LSPCA during the last two years, shutting down the only animal shelter that accepts strays is a great loss of Lancaster County (source)(source).
After the former director resigned and a new director started, many people had hoped that there would be positive changes (source)(source). Their facility is amazing and the city of Lancaster is full of animal lovers. But, it must have proved to be a challenge that was too big for any one person. From what they are releasing, they are saying that it is due to a "failed business model and lack of funds (source).
So now the future of the animals in Lancaster County is in question. And unlike most counties, it affects more than just strays. Lancaster county is known for their puppy mills. It is sometimes known as the Puppy Mill Capital of the East (source). I used to spend a lot of time talking to customers and random people at the dog park. It's not something that is a secret--people are very much aware of the puppy mill problem. But, what are they going to do with the puppies that will now be liberated because of Libre's Law. The very law that started in this county. It's a sick twist of fate.
So now we can only sit and wait. Hopefully, someone will buy up the space and open an animal shelter.
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