Agenda 02-17-2026; 8-d - Proposed Additions to Animal Services Fee Schedule for Community Animal Clinic & Purchasable Collars & Leashes

Browse Search

1 ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS ACTION AGENDA ITEM ABSTRACT Meeting Date: February 17, 2026 Action Agenda Item No. 8-d SUBJECT: Proposed Additions to the Animal Services Fee Schedule for Community Animal Clinic & Purchasable Collars & Leashes DEPARTMENT: Animal Services ATTACHMENT(S): INFORMATION CONTACT: Proposed Fee Schedule Elizabeth Overcash, Animal Services Director, 919-942-7387 PURPOSE: To approve fees associated with the launch of the Orange County Community Animal Clinic and to approve modest charges for the sale of collars and leashes to support Animal Services programs. These fees support cost recovery for supplies and services, promote responsible pet ownership, and ensure the continued sustainability of community programs. BACKGROUND: In March 2025, Animal Services received a veterinary facility permit from the North Carolina Veterinary Medical Board to operate the Orange County Community Animal Clinic (Clinic). Under this license, Animal Services may now practice veterinary medicine on privately owned pets in the community, rather than being restricted to practicing medicine on animals that come into the custody of the shelter. This milestone represents a significant step forward in the shelter's ongoing efforts to address the barriers preventing access to affordable veterinary care by increasing Animal Services' ability to serve the more vulnerable human and animal populations in the community. The Clinic officially began seeing patients in July 2025 and provided service to a total of 122 pets in 2025. Many of the pet owners served by the Clinic fall just outside eligibility for the Animal Services' free spay and neuter voucher program, yet still struggle to afford private veterinary care. Through the Clinic, Animal Services is able to offer affordable wellness exams, vaccinations, minor treatments, and spay and neuter surgeries, thereby meeting a vital need for families who might otherwise have no ability to access veterinary care. The Clinic is currently funded through donations and the Animal Services Department's medical account, which has allowed Animal Services to pilot these services and assess community demand. As the program continues to grow, Animal Services is dedicated to achieving a self- sustaining model that ensures long-term viability without relying solely on donated funds. Implementing reasonable service fees for residents who can pay will help offset supply and medication costs while maintaining affordability for the public and allowing for reduced or waived fees for financially insecure residents. Offering these services directly through Animal Services not only improves animal welfare, but also strengthens the community's capacity to keep pets in loving homes. Veterinary costs have