Local Animal Shelter seeks funding for rabies vaccination outreach and new facility expenses

Kerr County officials are taking proactive steps to enhance community engagement and animal health services as they prepare for the upcoming fiscal year. During the recent budget workshop held on May 22, 2025, discussions centered around reviving off-site rabies vaccination clinics, which had been halted due to COVID-19 restrictions. To incentivize local veterinarians to participate, a funding request of $2,400 was proposed, with $400 allocated for each participating vet. This initiative aims to promote public health and ensure pets receive necessary vaccinations.

In addition to the vaccination program, the budget workshop addressed rising operational costs. Officials noted an increase in postage expenses related to rabies submissions and other communications, attributed to changes in service providers. To adapt to these financial pressures, the budget for microchipping was reduced to zero, as local organization Bridal Pets Alive confirmed they would continue providing microchips for free.

The meeting also highlighted preparations for a significant move to a new facility, expected to triple the size of the current operations. This transition raises concerns about increased utility costs, particularly electricity and gas, as the new building will be fully electric. Budget adjustments included a 30% increase in operating expenses to accommodate unforeseen costs associated with the move.

As Kerr County looks ahead, officials are focused on ensuring that the community's needs are met while managing the complexities of transitioning to a larger facility. The discussions from the budget workshop reflect a commitment to maintaining essential services and adapting to changing circumstances, ultimately benefiting both residents and their pets.