The Friends of Lake Forest Animals, established in 2008, was born from the South County Animal Shelter Coalition (SCASC) to address the animal welfare concerns of the citizens of the City of Lake Forest. The Coalition was formed approximately 4 years ago by a group of concerned citizens from the cities of Lake Forest, Laguna Hills, Aliso Viejo and Rancho Santa Margarita, to establish a regional Pro-Humane Animal Shelter. The coalition has been successful in bringing the issue before each four City Councils. Through their efforts, the City of Aliso Viejo was successful in contracting pro-humane animal control and shelter services with the City of Mission Viejo in April of 2008.

The City of Lake Forest voted to upgrade their animal care services with the County of Orange and establish a low-cost spay and neuter program. The current Lake Forest City Council also made it clear that they are not interested in participating in a city or regional shelter. In an effort to specifically address the Lake Forest City Council's reluctance to establish their own shelter and in a show of good faith that its residents are ready, willing and able to support a locally controlled pro-humane animal shelter, the Friends of Lake Forest Animals was born.

On behalf of the residents of Lake Forest and their pets we applaud the South County Animal Shelter Coalition's successess and support their continuing efforts. While we have made steps in the right direction, three of the four coalition cities continue to have animals euthanized at the County of Orange facility due to lack of funding and lack of proper facilities. The Friends of Lake Forest Animals and South County Animal Shelter Coalition will continue to work in solidarity to achieve a pro-humane South Orange County.

You can reach the South County Animal Shelter Coalition by clicking on this link.