Johnson County Animal Shelter Implements Fee Increase to Address Rising Vet Expenses
Johnson County, IN – The shelter now raises its fees. They need extra funds because vet costs rise. The shelter cares for many animals. Keeping them healthy is very important. This fee change took effect last Monday.
New Fee Structure
Adopting a dog now costs $200. A cat older than six months costs $100. Kittens cost $125. Before, the fee made dogs cost $150, cats $50, and kittens $75. Cari Klotzche runs the shelter. She says the fees help pay for spaying, neutering, microchipping, age-fit shots, rabies shots, and heartworm tests.
"The fee boost helps us cover rising care costs and many surrenders," Klotzche said.
Financial Context
The shelter will still spend more than the fees bring in. Spaying or neutering a dog may cost about $200. For cats, it costs between $70 and $125. Many animals stay longer. They get more shots until they find homes.
"We lose money on each animal. We raise fees to cut the loss," she said. "Extra funds let us pay for needed vet work."
The money from adoptions will support future animal care.
Adoption Trends and Future Plans
This fee change is the first in years. Vet bills climb, so fees climb too. Some worry that higher fees might slow adoptions. Klotzche stresses that the fees help the shelter run well. State rules also demand spaying or neutering dogs before adoption.
With more funds, the shelter can run more ads. They plan to offer free adoptions in December and lower fees for older pets in August. They even plan deals such as two kittens for the price of one.
"We lose less money with these deals. Donors also help a lot," Klotzche added.
Adoption Rates and Shelter Capacity
Currently, the shelter works over 120% capacity. Yet, adoptions rose a bit from 17% last year to 18% this year. The busy season is from September to December. Klotzche hopes for a 25% adoption rate this year.
The shelter trains staff and extends hours. They plan a new "Pit Stop" poster campaign. The posters explain available animals and shelter services. The goal is to reach the community and find more homes.
"Many people still do not know us," Klotzche said. "This campaign shows, 'We are here. Let's help together.'"
The Johnson County Animal Shelter hopes these changes improve its money matters while still caring for its animals.
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