To Spur Adoptions, Nashville’s Animal Control Offers Rescue Groups Lower Fees

Animal Control says it has connections with several dog rescue groups, but there are relatively fewer helping cats find homes. Credit Galawebesign, via Wikimedia Commons

In Nashville, Animal Control is lowering the fee it charges rescue groups that help find homes for pets.  It’s part of Metro’s effort to reduce the number killed, after it was reported earlier this year most were being put down.

While taking home a dog would normally cost $90, Metro will now charge approved rescue groups $45.  It’s a small step in the right direction, says Amanda Juskiewicz, a board member of one such group:

“I think there’s a lot more work to be done—but a step, yes, a baby step.”

Among the criticisms against Metro is that it still charges the nonprofits a fee at all, when they’re effectively trying to save the county money.  But pointing to the cost of spaying or neutering and vaccinations, Animal Control says it’s trying to meet in the middle, because ultimately taxpayers help foot the bill.