PAWS Chicago Receives 41 California Dogs After Los Angeles Pet Seizure Strains Shelters

On March 25, 2026, PAWS Chicago confirmed it had taken in 41 dogs flown from California as local shelters cope with overflow following a major pet seizure in Los Angeles.

The animals arrived at the PAWS Kocourek Medical Center in Little Village after being transported by Paws for Life K9 Rescue, which flew the group to Gary, Indiana; Chicago volunteers collected the animals around 3 p.m. Tuesday. The group included a mother dog and eight puppies. Officials said the dogs are not part of the evidence seized in Los Angeles but were moved to free space in local shelters after more than 300 dogs and cats were removed from an LA animal rescue last Friday amid complaints of inhumane conditions. Those seized animals are being held as evidence and are currently unavailable for adoption, placing additional strain on area shelters.

PAWS staff said the incoming dogs were scheduled for feeding, medical exams and vaccinations, with the puppies being prepared for spay/neuter procedures. The Pasadena Humane Society described on-site conditions in Los Angeles as deplorable and requiring urgent medical care; the County of Los Angeles Department of Animal Care and Control did not respond to requests for comment. PAWS leaders noted the transfer follows the organization’s history of emergency intakes after disasters and warned that spring litter season further reduces shelter capacity, urging Chicago residents to consider fostering or adopting at upcoming events to create space for animals in need.