The Pecos City Council convened on March 27, 2025, to discuss several pressing issues, with a significant focus on animal welfare and community health. The council considered a proposal to allocate up to $8,000 for a spay and neuter clinic aimed at residents of Pecos and Reeves County.

Christie Bryce, representing the Pecos Animal Control, presented the need for the clinic, highlighting a troubling increase in the number of young dogs entering the shelter. In the first quarter of 2025, the shelter took in 96 dogs under six months old, a stark rise from previous years. Bryce emphasized the importance of spaying and neutering to control the pet population and reduce the strain on local resources.

The proposed clinic, scheduled for June 2025, aims to sterilize 60 dogs and provide essential vaccinations and diagnostics. The initiative is a collaboration between local organizations, including Fix West Texas and the Pecos High School Veterinary Science Lab. The clinic will charge a nominal fee of $50 per dog, with plans to offer financial assistance for those who cannot afford it.

The total cost for the clinic is estimated at $10,800, but with community contributions and the anticipated fees, the net cost to the city would be around $8,000. Bryce urged the council to approve the funding to ensure the clinic's success and to help address the growing animal population issue in the community.

The council's decision on this funding request will play a crucial role in supporting local animal welfare efforts and enhancing community health initiatives.