Animal shelter seeks city funding for spay/neuter clinic; council approves up to $8,000

Christy Wright, representing the Pecos animal shelter, told the council the shelter’s intake of young animals has surged and that the shelter needs local capacity to reduce strain on operations and improve live outcomes.

Wright outlined a proposed self‑supported spay/neuter clinic planned for June 2025 at the Pecos High School veterinary science lab. The clinic would sterilize 60 dogs owned by residents of Pecos or Reeves County, provide core vaccinations and microchipping, and include limited diagnostics. Wright said the total cost to sterilize 60 dogs at the clinic would be $10,800 and that organizers expect two‑thirds of clients (about 40 appointments) to pay $50, reducing the remaining funding need to about $8,800; rescue partner One Tail at a Time pledged $800 in scholarships. “The cost to spay and neuter these 60 community dogs is $10,800,” Wright said.

Nut graf: To secure the clinic the shelter asked the council for up to $8,000 to cover the remaining cost if donations fall short. The council approved a motion to provide up to $8,000, and a council member challenged Reeves County to match that amount.

Wright said the clinic will require proof of Pecos or Reeves County residency at appointment time and that the high school veterinary science lab and partners (Fixed West Texas and One Tail at a Time West Texas) will provide veterinarians, technicians and equipment. The shelter plans to charge $50 per dog and pursue donor funds to subsidize those who cannot pay.

Ending: Council approved the requested amount and directed staff to confirm details; officials said partners may pursue additional clinics if funding and logistics allow.