Chicago Mayor Backs Animal Control Chief

- Susan Cappello was officially appointed Executive Director by Mayor Brandon Johnson in February 2026, after serving as the acting director since January 2023. - While supporters point to a 19% increase in live outcomes and record-high adoptions in 2025 under Cappello's leadership, critics, including some aldermen, have called for a nationwide search for a new director. - Concerns from shelter volunteers include allegations of dogs not being walked for days, improper euthanasia procedures without due process, and the mistreatment of cats. - Chicago Animal Care and Control (CACC) has been described as operating in "crisis mode" due to significant increases in animal intake. In the first three months of last year, owner surrenders rose by 265% compared to the same period in the previous year. - The shelter has faced persistent issues with overcrowding, and in 2023, the euthanasia rate increased for the third consecutive year, with 2,455 animals being put down. In the first two weeks of March 2025 alone, 556 cats and dogs were taken in. - The proposed 2026 budget for CACC included an increase of $120,492, but advocacy groups have noted that this primarily covers salary adjustments for administrative roles, with no new animal care staff or increases to medical and supply budgets. - Alderman Gilbert Villegas, along with other City Council members, has raised concerns about the qualifications of the current leadership and is pushing for a new leader with a strong background in animal care to be found through a national search. - Mayor Johnson has defended his choice, attributing the challenges faced by CACC to broader economic issues like the affordability crisis in Chicago, which contributes to more people surrendering their pets.