Petaluma is cutting ties with its longtime animal shelter provider following a series of disturbing allegations regarding animal neglect and poor management.
Per the Petaluma Argus-Courier, the Petaluma City Council voted unanimously Monday night to terminate its contract with North Bay Animal Services, or NBAS, effective March 31st. The move follows reports from Clearlake where over 100 dogs were allegedly found living in “deplorable and inhumane” conditions at a shelter previously managed by the group.
While city staff noted that Petaluma’s own shelter did not show similar signs of neglect, they reported a complete breakdown in trust. Assistant City Manager Brian Cochran stated that NBAS leaders refused to work with city consultants and failed to be responsive to staff concerns. The council’s decision was bolstered by a 2025 Civil Grand Jury report critical of the organization and public testimony from five neighboring humane societies calling for the contract’s end.
NBAS Executive Director Mark Scott has denied abandoning animals in Clearlake, but Mayor Kevin McDonnell said the “justification for canceling for cause” was evident. The city is now moving to hire an interim provider to ensure shelter operations continue without interruption.
