(FOX40.COM) – The City of Stockton is celebrating a major step toward affordable pet care and reducing the number of stray animals around the community.
On Wednesday, the Stockton Police Department held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its new Pet Wellness and Adoption Center located at 1661 W Fremont St. The facility will serve as a welcoming hub for pet owners seeking low-cost veterinary care, adoption services and education on responsible pet ownership.
Police Chief Stanley McFadden called it a milestone for the city’s four-legged residents.
“It’s a great day for our four-legged community members,” said McFadden. “As you know, we’re very passionate about them, and they help us thrive in our roles.”
Officials said the facility will be important in helping pet owners who face the tough decision of giving up their pets because they can’t pay for treatments or care.
“We have, very high demand for, access to affordable veterinary care,” said Animal Services Manager Ashley Kluza. “That’s one of the biggest things that we hear – individuals needing to surrender their pets is that they can’t afford to either alter their pets or, fix an issue that may have occurred after an accident or something like that.”
To address that, Kluza said the center plans to offer low-cost vaccines and free spay and neuter services with small deposits that can be waived for those in financial need.
“Unwanted litters, accidental litters, things like that really expedite our strays in the area,” said Kluza. “If we can cut down on that by offering low-cost and free spay and neuter, it’s going to cut down on the stray population in the city as well.”
The new center will also feature 10 to 15 adoptable dogs on site, with an additional 10 to 15 adoptable cats on site.
Unique community programs offered include puppy and kitten yoga classes, where all participating animals will be available for adoption. Summer classes on responsible pet ownership and training resources will also be offered.
According to city officials, the $3.5 million project is projected to cost $1.5 million annually to operate.
“This project also strengthens the city’s economy and sustainability efforts. It creates local jobs, reduces costs associated with animal control and overcrowded shelters, and ensures that fewer animals are left without care or a home,” said Stockton Mayor Christina Fugazi.
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