Pet Connection Humane Society, a North Dakota-based animal shelter, has sent notice to the cities it serves that it intends to cancel its contract and close its doors unless given an assurance by the end of June for more financial support.
The humane society, which acts as the animal impound for the cities of Bismarck and Mandan, needs about $7,000 a month, plus an animal impound contract, according to Bill Kozel, president of the shelters board of directors.
Last year, Pet Connection received $630 a month for impound services, plus $12.60 per animal per day. Those services are separate from the costs to run the shelter.
Bismarcks City Commission has asked for bids for animal impound services. In May, it rejected a bid from Pet Connection, asked for $5,000 a month plus $18 a day for impound services. Additionally, its bid called for $14,000 a year to run the shelter.
The City Commission is expected to discuss the situation and possible solutions at its next meeting, scheduled for 5 p.m. Tuesday, June 27. A contract continuation with the Pet Connection could be one alternative, or having the city handle Pet Connections duties or give the tasks to another group.
If the shelter does not receive more funding assurances, it will cease its impound services July 17 and stop accepting animals at the shelter, according to a letter signed by Pet Connections board of directors.
Also, the shelter would remain operational only until all remaining animals could be placed in homes.
Posted: June 26, 2006, 5:00 a.m. EST