Spalding County animal control seeks to raise adoption and vetting fees due to rising costs

In a recent workshop held by the Spalding County Board of Commissioners, discussions centered around a memorandum from the Animal Care and Control Director, Vicki Hennessy, proposing an increase in adoption and vetting fees. The request comes in response to rising costs associated with providing medical care and services for animals in the county's shelter.

Hennessy highlighted that the current adoption fee of $35 has not been adjusted since 2018, despite significant inflation affecting veterinary services. She noted that the costs for essential services such as vaccinations, spaying, and neutering have dramatically increased, necessitating a reevaluation of the fee structure to ensure the shelter can continue to provide quality care.

The board members engaged in a detailed discussion about the implications of the proposed fee increases. Some members expressed concern about the potential impact on the community, particularly given the demographics of Spalding County, where many residents may struggle to afford higher fees. Suggestions were made to implement a sliding scale for adoption fees based on income, allowing for financial assistance to those in need.

Another critical point raised was the need for owner surrender fees to reflect the actual costs incurred by the shelter. Currently, the fees for surrendering animals are set at $100 for altered animals and $100 for unaltered ones. Several board members argued that these fees should be increased to better cover the expenses associated with caring for surrendered animals, with proposals suggesting a doubling of these fees.

The meeting also touched on the urgent need for funding to support spay and neuter programs, as the shelter is currently out of funds for these services. Board members discussed the importance of preventing overpopulation and the potential for emergency funding to address immediate needs.

Ultimately, the board decided to table the discussion until their next meeting in May, allowing members time to review the proposed changes and consider the broader implications for the community. The outcome of this meeting will be crucial in determining how Spalding County addresses the challenges of animal care and control while balancing the financial realities faced by its residents.