Riverton City Council reviews Paws for Life funding and animal care challenges

The Riverton City Council held a work session on April 8, 2025, focusing on community programs and animal welfare initiatives. The meeting began with a presentation from a local organization that has served the community for 17 years, highlighting their funding from the District 25 Recreation Board for a summer program that serves around a thousand children each June.

The discussion then shifted to Paws for Life, a non-profit no-kill animal shelter. New director Lonnie Slack and co-director Ashley Aragon addressed the council, outlining the shelter's challenges, particularly regarding the need for improved facilities. Slack emphasized the necessity of concrete pads for the shelter's outdoor areas to prevent animals from being exposed to mud and other unsanitary conditions.

Paws for Life reported a significant intake of 357 animals last year, with ongoing difficulties in securing grants due to the city’s ownership of the shelter building. The directors requested funding assistance from the city to help cover veterinary costs, which totaled over $43,000 for the current fiscal year. They noted that many animals require extensive medical care, complicating their budget.

Council members raised concerns about the shelter's financial management, particularly regarding the costs associated with animals brought in by the city. Questions were posed about the vet bills for city-introduced animals and the shelter's foster care program, which has seen some animals remain in foster care for extended periods. The council discussed the need for clearer tracking of expenses and the potential for an agreement with local veterinarians to manage costs more effectively.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from the council to further explore the financial dynamics between the city and Paws for Life, ensuring that both the shelter's needs and the city's budgetary constraints are addressed. The council expressed appreciation for the shelter's work and the importance of animal welfare in the community.