Aransas County authorizes application for Petco Love grant to buy mobile adoption trailer

Aransas County commissioners authorized Animal Care Services to apply for a Petco Love Animal Welfare grant to acquire a climate-controlled mobile adoption trailer intended to expand off-site adoptions and reduce shelter costs.

Jackie, speaking for the department, said an independent unit would reduce scheduling conflicts with neighboring jurisdictions and increase safe, climate-controlled outreach opportunities. "This isn't just a trailer. It's a tool to increase adoption rates and reduce long-term cost of care at the main shelter," Jackie said.

Two manufacturers and price estimates were discussed in the record: one quote near $72,400 and another near $68,000. Jackie said the grant could cover the total cost depending on the final model and the application requirements. She also noted the trailer would have a capacity of about 22 animals and could be used during evacuations to move animals together.

Commissioners asked about procurement requirements and whether a grant would still require three written quotes; staff responded that some grants require bids or three quotes and recommended reviewing grant terms. Officials also raised liability and operations questions about county employees towing the trailer and noted staff would ensure a suitable towing vehicle and trained personnel if the grant is awarded.

The court voted to authorize submission of the grant application; commissioners did not approve purchase at the meeting. Staff was instructed to review grant requirements, secure additional vendor quotes as needed and return with final purchase recommendations if the grant is awarded.

The motion to authorize the application carried; no grant award or trailer purchase was finalized at the meeting.