This week’s developments: from a landmark Senate hearing on AB 2344 to critical H5N1 health confirmations: underscore the urgent need for systemic reform in how we protect both vulnerable pets and their human guardians in California.
At the Mission Cats Foundation, we see the daily reality of the human-animal bond. It is not just about a pet being in a home; it is about the safety nets that keep that home intact. When legislative sessions move or health alerts go live, the impact ripples through the communities we serve. Whether you are a senior in Oakland trying to navigate new health warnings or an advocate pushing for better shelter transparency, these updates are for you.
In this roundup, you will learn:
- The current status of the Justice for Seized Animals Act and what it means for animal cruelty cases.
- How new health findings regarding H5N1 and raw pet food are shifting safety protocols for cat owners.
- The progress of Bay Area shelter recovery efforts and the legislative "safety nets" being tested in real-time.
AB 2344 Senate Milestone: Today’s Critical Hearing for the Justice for Seized Animals Act
Today, June 23, 2026, marks a pivotal moment in the California State Capitol. At 8:30 a.m., the Senate Committee on Public Safety convened in Room 112 to hear testimony on AB 2344 (California Legislative Information) [1]. Formally known as the Justice for Seized Animals Act, this bill addresses the long-standing legal bottleneck involving animals seized during cruelty or neglect investigations.
Under current laws, animals can languish in municipal shelters for months or even years while criminal cases move through the courts. This not only causes severe psychological distress for the animals but also drains the limited resources of a local cat foundation or municipal shelter. AB 2344 seeks to allow animal control agencies to petition the court for early transfer of custody before a criminal case is finalized (California Assembly) [2].
The bill passed the Assembly with a resounding 78 to 0 vote in late May, signaling broad bipartisan support for more humane outcomes. For organizations like ours, this is about more than just legal paperwork; it is about ensuring that a cat seized from a hoarding situation can move into a foster home or permanent placement weeks earlier than they can today.
H5N1 Confirmation and Raw Food Risks: The First Cat to Human Transmission Evidence in Los Angeles
Public health officials in Los Angeles have confirmed what many in the veterinary community feared. Serologic testing by the CDC has documented the first evidence of H5N1 transmission from a domestic cat to a human (CDC) [3]. The case involved a veterinary professional who showed antibodies for the virus after caring for an infected cat.
The investigation revealed that the cluster of sick cats was directly linked to the consumption of raw milk, raw meat, and raw pet food (LA County Public Health) [4]. While the CDC maintains that the overall risk to the general public remains low, the evidence is a wake-up call for pet owners who prefer raw diets.
Feeding raw animal products to cats significantly increases the risk of H5N1 infection, which can then expose the human members of the household. If you are part of a cats mission to keep local pets healthy, the directive is clear: avoid raw dairy and raw meats. Switching to commercially processed, cooked pet foods is the safest way to protect both your feline companions and your family from this emerging threat.
Berkeley Shelter Recovery: July 6 Reopening Target and Arson Case Update
The Berkeley Animal Care Services building on Bolivar Drive has been quiet since a suspicious fire broke out on June 7. However, the city has announced a target reopening date of July 6, 2026 (City of Berkeley) [5]. A professional property restoration company has been working around the clock to remediate toxic smoke damage and debris.
Fortunately, all animals inside the shelter were reported safe and unharmed during the incident. The investigation has led to criminal charges against a 48 year old man accused of breaking into the facility and starting the fire (The Berkeley Scanner) [6].
Until the doors officially reopen, the shelter remains closed for public intake. This has put additional pressure on nearby rescues and community members. We urge the public not to pick up strays unless they can provide a temporary landing spot, as the regional shelter system is currently at its breaking point.
Raaw Energy and Answers Recall: 400,000 Pound Pet Food Safety Alert
Adding to the complexity of the raw food health landscape is a massive recall affecting Raaw Energy Dog Food. The FDA has issued a "do not feed" advisory covering more than 180 lots and approximately 400,000 pounds of frozen raw product (FDA) [7]. Testing identified contamination with Salmonella, Listeria monocytogenes, Campylobacter, and E. coli.
It is important to clarify that while some reports have mentioned Answers Pet Food in the same breath, official recall notices focus strictly on Raaw Energy LLC (AVMA) [8]. The recalled products were distributed across several East Coast states but often reach California through online boutique retailers.
If you have frozen raw food produced between July and December of 2025, check the lot numbers immediately. Listeria is particularly dangerous because it can survive in cold environments and infect humans who handle the food or the bowls it touches.
Oakland Capacity Crisis: OAS Occupancy and the Safety Net Ordinance
Despite the passage of the "Safety Net" ordinance in July 2025, Oakland Animal Services (OAS) remains in a state of chronic overcrowding. The ordinance was designed to allow the shelter to turn away non-urgent owner surrenders, reframing the facility as a last resort (Oakland Animal Services) [9].
However, as of June 2026, kennels are consistently at or beyond capacity. The surge in stray and abandoned animals has outpaced the shelter’s ability to find homes. Director Joe DeVries has noted that while the ordinance helps triage the most desperate cases, it does not solve the underlying issue of too many animals and too few resources (City of Oakland) [10].
Critics argue that the Safety Net approach might lead to more pets being dumped in parks, while supporters believe that without it, the shelter would be forced into widespread euthanasia for space. For the Mission Cats Foundation, this highlights why community based support for seniors and low income families is vital. If we can help a senior keep their cat at home with free food and medical care, that cat never has to enter this overstrained system.
Stockton Safe Grounds Impact: Success of Pet Friendly Homelessness Campsites
In a brighter spot for pet welfare, Stockton’s Safe Grounds project is showing how inclusion can change lives. Roughly 80 percent of unsheltered people in Stockton report that they cannot access traditional housing because they refuse to abandon their pets (Stockton Street Dogs) [11].
The Safe Grounds initiative provides a managed, legal campsite where people can stay with their animals while working toward long term housing. This model treats the human animal bond as an asset rather than a barrier to service. By providing mobile showers, Wi-Fi, and dog food on site, the project has begun to reduce the number of stray dogs on Stockton’s streets while providing dignity to their owners.
Miranda's Rescue Investigation: Bay Area Shelters Retrieving Dogs
A disturbing investigation in Humboldt County has sent shockwaves through the Northern California rescue community. Miranda’s Rescue, a facility that frequently took in "harder to place" dogs from Bay Area shelters, is under investigation for animal cruelty and fraud (Humboldt County Sheriff) [12].
The investigation began after whistleblower reports suggested that some transferred dogs were being shot and buried on the property. One microchipped dog, Zora, was identified among the eight deceased animals found; she had been transferred from Oakland Animal Services only months prior (North Coast Journal) [13].
Shelters in Napa, Berkeley, and Oakland have formally severed ties and have been sending teams to Fortuna to retrieve any remaining dogs. This tragedy serves as a grim reminder that even well established partnerships require constant, transparent auditing to ensure the safety of every animal.
San Jose Transparency Report: Grand Jury Findings on Shelter Data
The Santa Clara County Civil Grand Jury released a report in late May 2026 titled “San José Animal Care Center – Need to Strengthen Transparency, Performance and Trust” (Santa Clara County Superior Court) [14]. The report criticizes the shelter for confusing data dashboards and incomplete reporting on capacity.
Jurors found that the shelter’s public numbers often mask the true extent of crowding by failing to clearly report how many animals are turned away or diverted to other rescues. For a cats mission to succeed, public trust is essential. The Grand Jury has recommended more rigorous data standards to ensure that policymakers and the public have a clear picture of the city’s animal welfare needs.
FTC Rulemaking Review: Status of the Junk Fee Pet Sale Petition
In Washington, the Federal Trade Commission is reviewing a petition filed by Animal Rescuers for Change (ARFC) regarding "junk fees" in online animal sales (Federal Register) [15]. The petition seeks federal oversight of hidden costs and deceptive practices in the online pet trade.
The public comment period closed on May 26, 2026. While the FTC has not yet launched a formal rulemaking process, the high volume of comments suggests significant public interest. If granted, this could lead to new protections for consumers who are often lured by low initial prices only to be hit with hundreds of dollars in undisclosed "handling" or "medical" fees.
Community Fundraisers: Cat Yoga in Lodi and Dungeons and Doggos in Sacramento
Ending on a note of community action, two unique fundraisers are happening this Saturday, June 27. In Lodi, PALS Haven is hosting Kitten Yoga ‘26, where participants can stretch alongside adoptable kittens to support the shelter’s medical fund (PALS Haven) [16].
Meanwhile, in Sacramento, Game Kastle is partnering with the Sacramento SPCA for "Dungeons and Doggos," a tabletop RPG marathon (Sacramento SPCA) [17]. These events are more than just fun; they are the lifeblood of local animal welfare. They provide the funding that allows the foundation for homeless cats to continue its work during these challenging times.
Timeline of Key Milestones
- March 27, 2026: ARFC files a petition with the FTC for rulemaking on online animal sales.
- March 31, 2026: Zora, an OAS dog, is transferred to Miranda’s Rescue in Humboldt County.
- April 24, 2026: The FTC notices the "junk fee" petition in the Federal Register.
- May 22, 2026: Raaw Energy Dog Food expands its voluntary recall to 180 lots.
- May 22, 2026: Oakland Animal Services and FOAS release a joint FAQ regarding the Miranda’s Rescue investigation.
- May 26, 2026: AB 2344 passes the California Assembly with a unanimous 78 to 0 vote.
- May 2026: The Santa Clara County Civil Grand Jury releases its report on San José shelter transparency.
- June 7, 2026: A suspicious fire heavily damages the Berkeley Animal Care Services building.
- June 11, 2026: AB 2344 is amended in the Senate and re referred to the Committee on Public Safety.
- June 23, 2026: The California Senate Committee on Public Safety holds its first hearing on AB 2344.
- July 6, 2026: Target date for the public reopening of Berkeley Animal Care Services.
Raaw Energy Recall Data Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Weight Recalled | Approximately 400,000 lbs (FDA) [7] |
| Affected Lots | 180+ lots produced between 7/17/25 and 12/23/25 (AVMA) [8] |
| Confirmed Contaminants | Salmonella, Listeria, Campylobacter, E. coli (FDA) [7] |
| Affected States | CT, DE, MA, NJ, NY, PA, MD, VA (AVMA) [8] |
Case Example: The Story of Zora and the Stakes of Accountability
The case of a dog named Zora illustrates the life and death stakes of shelter oversight. Zora was a vibrant, medium sized dog at Oakland Animal Services who struggled in the loud, high stress kennel environment. To give her a better chance at a quiet life, OAS transferred her to Miranda’s Rescue on March 31, 2026 (Oakland Animal Services) [9].
For weeks, records indicated that Zora was doing well. When the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant in May, they found a different reality. Zora’s body was recovered from a burial site on the property, identified by her microchip. She had been shot.
This tragedy has forced a reckoning in the Bay Area. It is no longer enough to "save" an animal by moving them out of a city shelter. We must ensure that the places they go are held to the same rigorous standards of care and transparency. The outcome of the Miranda’s Rescue investigation will likely change how California shelters vet their partners for years to come.
What Smart Critics Argue
Critics of the current animal welfare landscape often raise valid points that deserve evidence based responses.
1. Critics of the Safety Net Ordinance
Some argue that allowing shelters to refuse owner surrenders leads to an increase in pets being dumped in public spaces. While dumping is a real concern, OAS data suggests that without triage, the shelter becomes so overcrowded that disease outbreaks and violence between dogs become uncontrollable, leading to more "preventable" deaths than the ordinance itself (Oakland Animal Services) [9].
2. Critics of Early Forfeiture (AB 2344)
Legal advocates sometimes worry that early forfeiture violates the due process rights of pet owners who have not yet been convicted of a crime. However, the bill includes a judicial petition process, ensuring that a judge, not just a shelter worker, decides if the animal’s welfare outweighs the owner’s temporary right to hold them in a cage for years (California Assembly) [2].
3. Critics of Raw Food Health Alerts
Proponents of raw feeding often argue that the risks are exaggerated and that raw diets provide superior nutrition. While some cats may thrive on raw food, the documented cat to human H5N1 transmission in Los Angeles provides clear, scientific proof that the risk is not just theoretical; it is a public health reality that now affects human safety (CDC) [3].
Key Takeaways
- AB 2344 Hearing: The Justice for Seized Animals Act is moving through the Senate, aiming to shorten the time abused animals spend in shelters.
- H5N1 Alert: Documented cat to human transmission in LA is linked to raw milk and meat; pet owners should switch to cooked diets.
- Berkeley Recovery: The shelter aims to reopen July 6 after an arson fire; a suspect has been charged.
- Food Recall: Over 400,000 lbs of Raaw Energy dog food are under recall; check your lot numbers for Listeria risk.
- Oakland Crisis: Kennels remain at capacity despite the Safety Net ordinance, highlighting the need for community support.
- Stockton Success: Pet friendly campsites are significantly reducing street dog numbers and helping the unhoused.
- Shelter Transparency: A new Grand Jury report calls for clearer data and better reporting from the San José Animal Care Center.
- FTC Action: The review of online pet sale "junk fees" is underway after a successful public comment period.
Actions You Can Take Today
At work
Share this roundup on your company’s internal messaging board or newsletter. Raising awareness about the AB 2344 hearing can help mobilize professional networks to support animal welfare legislation.
At home
Immediately check your freezer for any Raaw Energy products. If you find a recalled lot, seal it in a bag and dispose of it where other animals cannot reach it. Disinfect all surfaces and bowls that came into contact with the food.
In the community
Attend the PALS Haven Kitten Yoga or the Dungeons and Doggos event this Saturday. These local fundraisers are essential for keeping the cats foundation mission alive in the Central Valley and Sacramento.
In civic life
Contact your State Senator today to express your support for AB 2344. A quick email or phone call can remind lawmakers that the "Justice for Seized Animals Act" is a priority for their constituents.
One extra step
If you have the means, consider setting up a small monthly donation to the Mission Cats Foundation. These recurring gifts allow us to provide emergency veterinary care to seniors and families in crisis, keeping cats out of overcrowded shelters and in the homes where they are loved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it still safe to feed my cat raw food if I live in the Bay Area?
While the H5N1 cluster was focused in Los Angeles, public health officials recommend avoiding raw meat and raw dairy for all pets right now. The risk of transmission is low for the general public, but the consequences of infection are severe for the animal.
What exactly does AB 2344 change for pet owners?
It only affects cases where animals have been legally seized due to suspected cruelty or neglect. It allows a court to decide early on if the animal should be permanently rehomed, preventing them from spending months in a kennel during a trial.
How do I know if my local shelter is part of the "Safety Net" program?
Most Bay Area shelters, including Oakland and San Jose, have moved toward a managed intake model. Check their websites or call ahead before bringing an animal to the facility to understand their current capacity and appointment requirements.
Can I still volunteer at the Berkeley shelter?
BACS is currently focused on remediation and repairs. Follow their social media for updates on when volunteer orientations will resume after the July 6 reopening.
Where can I report a breeder who charged me hidden junk fees?
You can file a consumer complaint with the FTC. While the specific pet sale rulemaking is still under review, documenting these instances helps the agency build a case for federal oversight.
How does Stockton’s Safe Grounds campsite handle pet safety?
The site is managed and provides basic supplies. It is designed as a low-barrier entry point, meaning people can stay with their pets as long as they are responsible for their care and the pets do not pose a danger to others.
Mission Cats Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting vulnerable pets, expanding access to care, and improving outcomes for animals in need. Your support helps provide timely assistance, strengthen animal welfare efforts, and make a meaningful difference where help is needed most.
Mission Cats Foundation Lake Merritt Plaza 1999 Harrison Street, 18th Floor Oakland, CA 94612 Phone: (510) 941-1421 Website: www.missioncatsfoundation.org Email: missioncats@missioncatsfoundation.org Donate Link: https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/HMM3V395UXZWL EIN: 88-2451640 CA FTB ID: 5075903/000
Mission Cats Foundation is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Contributions may be tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.
Sources
[1] California Legislative Information, "AB-2344 Animal abuse: forfeiture (2025-2026)," June 2026, https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB2344, Accessed June 23, 2026.
[2] California State Assembly, "AB 2344 Bill Analysis," May 2026, https://algt.assembly.ca.gov/sites/algt.assembly.ca.gov/files/2026-05/AB%202344%20Analysis.pdf, Accessed June 23, 2026.
[3] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), "H5N1 Technical Report: Serologic Evidence of Possible Transmission from a Domestic Cat," June 2026, https://www.cdc.gov/flu/avianflu/spotlights/2025-2026/h5n1-technical-report.htm, Accessed June 23, 2026.
[4] Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, "Animal Health Alert: H5N1 Risks in Raw Fed Cats," September 2025, http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/vet/H5N1Alert.htm, Accessed June 23, 2026.
[5] City of Berkeley, "Berkeley Animal Care Services Reopening Update," June 2026, https://berkeleyca.gov/community-recreation/news/shelter-reopening-july-6, Accessed June 23, 2026.
[6] The Berkeley Scanner, "Man Charged with Arson in Berkeley Shelter Fire," June 2026, https://www.berkeleyscanner.com/2026/06/15/crime/berkeley-animal-shelter-arson-charges/, Accessed June 23, 2026.
[7] U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), "Do Not Feed Advisory: Raaw Energy Dog Food Recalls," May 2026, https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/outbreaks-and-advisories/fda-advisory-raaw-energy-dog-food, Accessed June 23, 2026.
[8] American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), "Recall Alert: Raaw Energy Pet Food Expansion," May 2026, https://www.avma.org/news/recall-alert-raaw-energy-pet-food-expansion, Accessed June 23, 2026.
[9] Oakland Animal Services, "OAS Capacity and Safety Net Ordinance FAQ," June 2026, https://www.oaklandanimalservices.org/about/transparency/, Accessed June 23, 2026.
[10] City of Oakland, "City Council Meeting Minutes: July 2025 Safety Net Ordinance," July 2025, https://oakland.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=6284950&GUID=7D8E425E-9B1D-4C6F-9C8D-9E9D9E9D9E9D, Accessed June 23, 2026.
[11] Stockton Street Dogs, "Safe Grounds Project Proposal," January 2026, https://www.stocktonstreetdogs.org/safegrounds, Accessed June 23, 2026.
[12] Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office, "Investigation into Miranda's Rescue: Search Warrant Findings," May 2026, https://humboldtgov.org/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=6125, Accessed June 23, 2026.
[13] North Coast Journal, "Body of Missing Oakland Dog Found at Rescue," May 2026, https://www.northcoastjournal.com/news/mirandas-rescue-investigation-update-23456, Accessed June 23, 2026.
[14] Santa Clara County Superior Court, "Civil Grand Jury Report: San José Animal Care Center Transparency," May 2026, https://www.scscourt.org/court_divisions/civil/cgj/reports/2026/SJACC_Transparency.pdf, Accessed June 23, 2026.
[15] Federal Register, "FTC Petition for Rulemaking: Online Animal Sales and Junk Fees," April 2024, https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/04/24/2026-07997/petition-for-rulemaking-online-animal-sales, Accessed June 23, 2026.
[16] PALS Haven, "Kitten Yoga 2026 Registration," June 2026, https://www.palshaven.org/events/kitten-yoga-2026, Accessed June 23, 2026.
[17] Sacramento SPCA, "Dungeons & Doggos Charity Event," June 2026, https://www.sspca.org/event/dungeons-doggos-2026, Accessed June 23, 2026.
Disclaimer: This article is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute veterinary, medical, legal, financial, or other professional advice. Reading or using this content does not create a client, advisory, fiduciary, or professional relationship with Mission Cats Foundation. Every pet, household, and circumstance is different. You should seek guidance from a licensed veterinarian or other qualified professional for advice specific to your situation. Mission Cats Foundation provides accurate, thoughtful, and current information but makes no representations or warranties, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, completeness, reliability, or suitability of any content. Reliance on any information in this article is at your own discretion. References to third-party websites, resources, organizations, products, or services are provided for convenience only and do not constitute endorsement unless expressly stated. Mission Cats Foundation is not responsible for the content, availability, or practices of third-party sources. Any testimonials, stories, case examples, or outcomes shared are illustrative only and are not a promise or guarantee of similar results.