Los Angeles County is backing a bill that could help abused animals find permanent homes far sooner. The Board of Supervisors unanimously approved a motion supporting California's AB 2344, authored by Assemblymember Matt Haney, which would allow animal control agencies to request court forfeiture of abused animals when defendants in cruelty cases fail to appear — ending the legal limbo that can trap animals in shelters for months or even years.

Supervisor Kathryn Barger championed the effort, pointing to a striking example: 48 animals seized in one ongoing cruelty case have been held in county custody since August 2024, racking up more than $500,000 in housing costs alone — not counting medical expenses.

With the county spending an average of more than $105 per day to house each dog or cat, the savings from shorter stays could be redirected toward veterinary care, adoption programs, and shelter operations.

Animal welfare organizations across California have rallied behind the bill, arguing that prolonged custody worsens outcomes for animals already suffering. AB 2344 now moves forward with growing momentum behind it.

Southern California is experiencing a alarming surge in rattlesnake bites, with nearly 250 bites and three fatalities reported as of early July. Experts point to a March heat wave as a key factor driving increased snake activity across the region.

Among the victims is a young girl named Addy, whose father, Barajas, is speaking out after his daughter's frightening encounter. She was bitten on her left hand and required emergency care, and as of now is roughly 70% recovered — still bruised but in good spirits, even as she asks why the snake bit her.

The surge has claimed adult victims too. An Ohio man visiting family in California barely survived after receiving 54 doses of antivenom and spending 12 days in intensive care, with complications still lingering months later.

Barajas is sharing his family's ordeal to raise awareness about rattlesnake dangers and the importance of knowing which hospitals are best equipped to treat children in such emergencies. A GoFundMe has been launched to help cover Addy's mounting medical expenses.

Palmdale Veterinary Hospital

For pet owners across Palmdale, Lancaster, and the High Desert, having access to experienced veterinary care close to home matters. Palmdale Veterinary Hospital has been serving the Antelope Valley community for decades as a full-service, AAHA-accredited veterinary hospital providing medical, surgical, and dental care for dogs, cats, reptiles, birds, and other companion animals.

Located at 38568 N. 6th Street East in Palmdale, the hospital is committed to responsible pet ownership, preventative health care, and client education. Their team focuses on helping families make informed decisions about their pets’ health while providing professional, courteous, and compassionate care.

One of the hospital’s major distinctions is its accreditation through the American Animal Hospital Association. AAHA accreditation is awarded to veterinary hospitals that meet high standards across key areas such as medical records, examination facilities, pharmacy, diagnostic imaging, anesthesiology, surgery, dentistry, nursing care, and hospital maintenance. Palmdale Veterinary Hospital has earned this recognition, placing it among a smaller group of veterinary hospitals that meet these elevated standards.

The hospital is led by Dr. Lynn McEwan, DVM, a Southern California native and graduate of the University of California, Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, where he graduated with High Honors in 1976. Before taking over Palmdale Veterinary Hospital in 1984, Dr. McEwan served as a Captain in the U.S. Army Veterinary Corps, including time as the NATO veterinarian in Belgium. He also completed residency training in Laboratory Animal Medicine and Pathology.

While dogs and cats were his first love in veterinary medicine, Dr. McEwan has developed strong interests and skills in treating birds, reptiles, and pocket pets. He is a member of the Association of Avian Veterinarians and the American Veterinary Dental Society, with experience in advanced dentistry, laser surgery, orthopedic surgery, and complex internal medicine cases.

Dr. McEwan has also shared his veterinary knowledge beyond the clinic, appearing on local and national television programs discussing pet health and animal care. His long-standing presence in the community reflects both experience and a continued passion for helping animals.

For AV pet owners looking for established veterinary care, Palmdale Veterinary Hospital offers a combination of experience, accreditation, broad species knowledge, and a commitment to treating each pet with the care and attention they deserve.

Palmdale Veterinary Hospital
38568 N. 6th Street East
Palmdale, CA 93550
Monday–Friday: 8 AM–6 PM
Saturday: 8 AM–5 PM

Rainbow Ridge Ranch is a premier horseback riding destination tucked into the scenic landscape of Los Angeles County, conveniently located near Acton and Palmdale.

Run by Kathy and her spirited herd, the ranch offers something for everyone — from gentle trail rides and pony parties for little ones to riding lessons, horse-and-rider training, and full boarding services for equine companions.

Beginners can start with easygoing horses like Luna or Rojo, while more experienced riders can challenge themselves with advanced horses like Jigsaw or Roman. The ranch's colorful cast of horses each bring their own personality — from the carrot-loving Cali to the kid-friendly Gypsy and the lively pony Wyatt.

Planning a celebration? Pony rides and ranch parties make for unforgettable birthdays. Gift certificates for riding adventures and lessons are also available in the Ranch Store.

Everything is by reservation only — so if you're ready to saddle up, reach out to Kathy directly to book your next adventure.