Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Safety Net topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Working group weighs expanding MAC’s safety-net program and pet pantry, including domestic-violence support
Summary
MAC described a safety-net/diversion program that keeps owned animals in homes through help with vet care, deposits and food; the coordinator expanded its reach but is the only staffer, and the group discussed scaling the program (up to five staff) and adding domestic-violence pet support.
Director Ashley Harrington described MAC’s safety-net, or diversion, program as one of the agency’s strongest services. The program aims to keep owned animals in their homes by offering help with veterinary bills, temporary housing deposits, food, basic training and other resources. Harrington said the program coordinator — promoted from clerical staff — has expanded services and made the program more responsive, but she is on medical leave and the program currently relies heavily on one person.
Harrington said the program is modeled on Pets for Life and that, if the program and facility grow, MAC would like to establish a multi-person safety-net team rather than a single coordinator. “If we’re able to have a new facility, we would like to see, you know, upwards of 5 staff to support that program,” Harrington said.
Councilmembers and working-group members discussed adding domestic-violence support — such as dedicated kennels or quiet space separate from the general shelter population — to relieve victims’ worry about pet safety. The group noted current local examples: Harrington cited the YWCA Weaver Center as a site that can host a few kennels and said a dedicated space would be desirable in a new facility.
The working group also discussed a pet pantry — MAC provides a large bag of food per dog to help households in short-term need — and finder foster practices for when MAC intakes are closed; finders who foster are offered resources like food, kennels and bedding. Harrington said the agency provides these resources at intake to support temporary fostering until shelter space becomes available.
Harrington and councilmembers agreed to include safety-net staffing and expansion estimates in forthcoming budget planning and to add relevant program information to Council Connect and MAC’s web pages so community members can access FAQs and resources more easily.
