In October 2015, the Animal Services Division contracted with Sugar Land Pet Hospital for veterinary services for animals at the Sugar Land Animal Shelter. Under the terms of this agreement, the contract was subsequently renewed in Fiscal Years (FY) 2017 and 2018. Over the course of FY 2018, we have seen an increase in the number of animals at the shelter.

With an increase in animals anticipated with Annexation, the Animal Services Division was allocated $35,700 to support additional costs related to professional services. In addition, the cost of services has increased in FY18 due to higher costs in veterinary supplies and medical treatment, as the Shelter has experienced a Panleukopenia outbreak; numerous upper respiratory and ringworm infections;  and an increase in the number of heartworm positive animals. With an increase in animals and veterinary expenses, the Animal Services Division has seen an increase in the cost of providing veterinary services, requiring an increase in the contracted amount.

The FY18 contract with Sugar Land Pet Hospital for veterinary services was initially contracted at $34,500. Change orders have since been completed, raising the contracted amount to $43,100. However, we do not anticipate this funding amount to be sufficient for the remainder of the fiscal year. As such, the Environmental and Neighborhood Services Department recommends the City Council approve a contract amendment increasing the maximum contract amount to $61,000, an increase of $17,900.