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Police department outlines animal services changes after new shelter contract, launches microchip push
Summary
Citrus Heights Police Department reported operational changes since contracting with Bradshaw Animal Shelter, including a microchip donation program, new intake software, a local kennel for patrol staff and work with community partners on trap‑neuter‑return efforts.
The Citrus Heights Police Department presented an update on animal services on Jan. 8, describing changes since the city began contracting with Bradshaw Animal Shelter last September and unveiling a local microchip and licensing push.
Police Services Manager Tiffany Campbell and Animal Services Supervisor Deborah Miller said the new contract provides the city with a local shelter partner, two dedicated veterinarians, an on‑site hospital and a 24‑hour call center. Staff also said the city implemented a new shelter and case management system, Chameleon, which police said links intake records and microchip information more efficiently.
Supervisor Miller highlighted a microchip promotion, “Chip Chip Hooray,” supported in part by a donation of microchips from Mayor Jana Karpinski Costa. Miller said the department now offers on‑site microchipping appointments and anticipates coordinating mobile clinic events with Bradshaw in spring. The presentation also noted a newly dedicated kennel for officers that reduces trips to the shelter and keeps animals locally when officers are handling calls.
On trap‑neuter‑return (TNR) for feral cats, staff said they contacted 11 animal services agencies and found 10 of 11 do not operate funded TNR programs because of labor and cost constraints; staff cited an approximate per‑animal cost of $120 for spay/neuter appointments. Rancho Cordova was reported as an outlier that uses an outsourced nonprofit solution supported by Measure H for TNR work. Miller said the city will continue to explore partnerships with nonprofits and county programs to expand low‑cost spay/neuter services.
The department encouraged residents to use the city’s 311 Connect app or the online reporting form to submit animal concerns and to use new QR codes for pet licensing and microchipping appointments. The presentation did not request council action; staff said they will explore future community events and mobile clinic partnerships.
