POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI) – The Pocatello Animal Shelter has increased its adoption fees due to rising costs associated with animal care. Shelter officials attribute this decision to general inflation affecting prices for food and cleaning supplies.
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Sarah Moore, Animal Services Supervisor, stated, "Prices are increasing just to help us with the general inflation that we're all feeling. Prices for food, even just water to help clean and give all of the dogs potable water has been increasing so it'll help us balance out the costs a bit more."
The updated adoption fees are aimed at covering some of the shelter's expenses, although they will not fully cover veterinary care costs. The last increase in adoption fees occurred in 2019. The new rates are structured based on the age of the dog, while cat adoption fees have risen from $35 to $50.
The updated adoption fees are as follows:
- Puppies (6 months and younger): $200
- Adult dogs (7 months to 6 years): $150
- Senior dogs (7 years and older): $75
- Kittens (6 months and younger): $100
- Cats (7 months and older): $50
Moore emphasized that these fees remain competitive compared to other shelters, rescues, and pet stores.
Currently, the shelter has several larger breeds of dogs that have been available for adoption for over three months, significantly longer than the average stay. Moore encouraged potential adopters to consider these larger dogs, who have often been overlooked.