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For Immediate Release: February 22, 2024
Contact: Angela Holinshead
PH: 616-632-7071
EM:Angela.Hollinshead@kentcountymi.gov
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Kent County Animal Shelter to Adjust Fees to Reflect Rising Costs
GRAND RAPIDS (February 22, 2024) – Today, the Kent County Board of Commissioners approved a new fee schedule for the Kent County Animal Shelter (KCAS) effective March 1, 2024. The KCAS will increase fees to better align with operating costs. This adjustment marks the first change to the fee schedule since 2013.
“Many of these fees have not been adjusted in over a decade,” said KCAS Director Angela Hollinshead. “In that time, the costs for food, veterinary care and staff wages have all increased.”
A few of the notable fee adjustments include:
- Adoption fees for cats over four months old will increase to $20 from $5.
- The fees to spay or neuter dogs and cats will no longer be based on an animal’s weight but will now follow a new flat fee schedule.
- The $130 adoption fee for dogs, which includes spaying or neutering, medical examination, microchip, and all age-appropriate vaccinations at the time of adoption, will remain unchanged.
- Dog adopters must obtain a dog license for $17 annually or $10 for seniors over 62.
- Fees for owner surrender animals will increase to $35 from $25. Residents should contact the KCAS before surrendering their animals to discuss potential resources and support options.
A new $20 fee will cover the cost of adopting livestock. While it is uncommon, small farm animals are occasionally brought to the KCAS and placed for adoption, requiring specialized feed and veterinary care.
The new fee schedule is projected to generate an additional $10,700 in revenue annually. A complete list of fee changes can be found here.
"The well-being and care of our animals is our top priority,” concluded Hollinshead. “These adjusted fees reflect our commitment to ensuring that every animal receives the necessary care, including food, medical attention, and shelter, while we work to find them their forever homes."
The KCAS has numerous animals ready for adoption. To see the adoptable pets, click here.
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