Kern County Animal Services is starting a new program to reduce the number of pets dropped off at shelters. “Happy at Home” gives overwhelmed pet parents advice on how to take care of their animals, and director Nick Cullen hopes it leads to more room for strays because it costs the county about $270,000 a year to care for dropped off pets.

Information about Happy at Home can be found by calling 661-868-7145 or e-mailing [email protected].

Kelli Forsch