Animal shelter reports increased adoptions and improved live outcomes in 2023

The Roosevelt City Council meeting on March 4, 2025, highlighted significant updates regarding the local animal shelter's operations and outcomes. Council members discussed the intake and adoption rates of stray animals, revealing a stable year with approximately 1,098 animals received, including 464 dogs and 608 cats. Notably, 48% of these animals came from within city limits, while 52% were from surrounding Ushan County.

A positive trend was observed in the shelter's claim rate, which increased from 18% in December 2023 to 57% in 2024, indicating more residents are reclaiming lost pets. Additionally, the adoption rate rose by 5% compared to the previous year, suggesting improved community engagement in pet adoption.

The meeting also addressed challenges faced by the shelter, including a high staff turnover rate of approximately 62%, which has impacted sanitation and overall operations. Efforts are underway to improve conditions, including plans to separate sick animals from the general population to reduce health risks.

The shelter's live outcome rate, which reflects successful adoptions and claims, improved from 94% to 96%. However, the discussion noted that a number of sick cats had to be euthanized, prompting the shelter to seek solutions to enhance animal care and reduce illness.

In terms of outreach, the shelter transports animals to Provo approximately twice a month, with 16 to 24 animals typically making the journey each time. The council expressed gratitude for the shelter's ongoing efforts to serve the community and improve animal welfare, despite the challenges of staffing and resources.