Beginning January 1, 2014, the County Animal Shelter will begin providing animal shelter services to the City of Elk Grove. Up to 2,300 additional animals per year could come to the Shelter, resulting in a potential revenue increase of approximately $470,000 per year.
“We have the ability to handle the additional animals and the contract will provide resources to allow more favorable outcomes for the animals. We realize there are challenges and are confident that our relationship will grow and expand so that all the animals in our care might be given a second chance for a happier life,” stated Dave Dickinson, County Animal Shelter Director.
The increase in funds will also allow the Shelter to hire additional medical and support staff, new animal care attendants and fund a mobile spay/neuter clinic vehicle. Additionally, the Shelter will be able to have a veterinarian on staff seven days a week, instead of the current five days a week.
In the past, the City of Elk Grove contracted with the Sacramento Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSCPA). The contract will now shift to the county animal shelter, however, Elk Grove will continue its Community Cat program—for the approximately 500 feral cats taken in each year—with the SSPCA. Elk Grove will also continue to lead investigations, administrative hearings and complaints while the county will lead care and adoption efforts.
The County Shelter currently takes in about 38 animals a day. With the additional animals from Elk Grove, the number is expected to increase to about 44 animals a day, a mix of mostly cats, dogs and rabbits.
To find out about adoptable pets or rescue and promotional programs, visit the Shelter’s website.
Current County Animal Shelter Programs:
Free Fix for Pit Bull/Mix and Chihuahua/Mix for certain zip codes
Barn Cat adoption program
Feral Cat partnerships
$5 Feline Friday Adoptions for cats 1 year and older
Fostering and Rescue programs
Regular adoption and fundraising events such as Paint and Sip, Whiskers and Wine, and onsite pet store
Adoption events in the community at various sites
Hourly online updates of adoptable animals
Robust volunteer and social media programs
Monthly rabies, licensing and microchip events
Free pet food for low income pet owners
Lower adoption fees for seniors
Low cost spay/neuter programs
