Council approves Aroostook Mobile Pet Center to use Collins Pond Park for low-cost clinic

City staff described an arrangement with the Aroostook Mobile Pet Center to host a mobile veterinary/wellness clinic at Collins Pond Park. Staff said the service—coordinated with the Maine State Animal Welfare Department—would provide vaccinations, deworming and other wellness services primarily for cats in 2026 with potential expansion to dogs in 2027. The mobile unit would use an exterior window/drive-through style for intake with interior space for recovery; staff noted access to water and electricity at the site.

“We did talk about using the rec center in the past but Collins Pond Park looks like it would work really well,” staff said; the group estimated serving roughly 120 pets per scheduled clinic and emphasized that many county veterinary clinics are closed to new clients or charge higher fees.

Council motion: A motion to allow the Aroostook Mobile Pet Center to use Collins Pond Park facilities for approximately three days per month from August–Oct 1, 2026 and from mid-May–Oct 1, 2027 passed on a roll-call vote. Council clarified that the initial clinics in 2026 would focus on cats and routine wellness services; expansion to dogs and spay/neuter discussions could follow.

Why it matters: The program aims to increase access to affordable veterinary care for county residents, reduce fines for owners who cannot obtain rabies vaccinations, and support public health and animal welfare.

Next steps: Staff will coordinate dates, logistics, and any site access requirements and return to council if additional approvals or conditions are needed.