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Animal control seeks kennel tech amid rising vet costs and vehicle shortages
Summary
Animal control staff told the commission that veterinary bills, spay/neuter costs and limited vehicle availability are straining operations; they requested a kennel technician position and additional auto and professional services funding to sustain services and meet legal requirements for adopted animals.
Animal control staff briefed the Morgan County Commission on March 4 about growing costs and operational strain. They reported a substantial increase in veterinary expenses (spay/neuter and emergency care), professional services overruns and pressure from increased call volumes: the department logged 936 calls last year through dispatch alone.
Veterinary costs were described as industry‑standard but rising — staff said spay/neuter surgeries can range $300–$400 depending on size and complexity, and emergency or seized‑animal care can produce large bills that the county then seeks to recoup from owners when feasible. Commissioners noted the department attempts to recover costs from reclaiming owners or through enforcement when appropriate.
Animal control asked for an additional kennel technician (full‑time preferred; part‑time would help) to manage transports, vet visits and meet‑and‑greet scheduling, which commissioners said would free officers for enforcement duties. They also discussed vehicle needs — including the possibility of acquiring a low‑cost 2012 Expedition with an existing K9 cage — and the practical benefits of restoring a third vehicle to avoid gaps when officers must attend multi‑hour emergency vet visits.
The commission requested additional detail on professional services and auto line items and asked staff to return next week with reconciled numbers and proposals for fee or adoption‑fee adjustments to help offset costs.
