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Jay County approves humane society contract with 10% increase as shelter cites rising veterinary costs
Summary
The county approved a 2026 contract for animal control with Jay County Humane Society, which requested a 10% increase to $75,146 citing rising vet expenses and capacity pressures after taking in 330 animals last year.
Representatives from the Jay County Humane Society told the commissioners the shelter took in 330 animals last year, 176 of them from unincorporated Jay County, and that 214 were adopted while 61 were returned to owners. The shelter said it currently houses about 123 animals (56% from unincorporated areas) and that veterinary expenses have risen sharply; the proposed contract includes a 10% increase over the current year to $75,146 and the shelter told the board it has budgeted $52,000 for veterinary care in 2025.
Commission President Chad Aker relayed concerns from the Jay County Sheriff about response to calls; shelter representatives explained after‑hours responses are limited to contract‑defined emergencies and staff may set traps if animals are not at the scene. Commissioners voted unanimously to approve the contract pending review by the county attorney.
The shelter estimated total annual operating expenses could exceed $280,000 and noted Portland is the only municipality with a contract; commissioners asked the attorney to review the agreement before final execution.
