Following the adoption of an amended Hot Springs Animal Control Code by the Hot Springs Board of Directors on July 7, Animal Services will begin implementing changes related to the updated code on August 7, 2020.
These changes include adoption and reclaiming fee increases, as well as allowing pit bull and pit bull mixes to now be adopted by rescue organizations. Following is a summary of the Animal Control Code updates:
- In-state and out-of-state 501(c)3 animal rescue organizations are allowed to rescue animals, including pit bulls and pit bull mixes, from the City of Hot Springs Animal Shelter.
- Adoption fees for available animals at the City of Hot Springs Shelter are being updated due to the increasing costs of microchipping, sterilization and rabies vaccinations.
- Prices will be $75 for each dog; $55 for each cat; $25 for each hoofed animal; $15 for any other animal and $0 for foul or poultry. The prices are as stated regardless if the animal has already been microchipped, sterilized or vaccinated.
- Individuals reclaiming animals will now be required to purchase a $20 microchip for each animal being reclaimed.
- For those animals brought in to the Animal Services shelter following a biting incident, before the animal will be released at the end of the 10 day rabies quarantine, the individual reclaiming the animal has the choice to make an appointment with a licensed veterinarian of their choosing, which Animal Services officers will transport the animal to the veterinarian clinic or a licensed veterinarian can come to the Hot Springs Animal Services to administer the vaccination, at the owner’s expense. This procedure is to ensure that all animals have a current rabies vaccination after the 10 day rabies quarantine.
- For city and county residents reclaiming impounded animals, there will be the choice to “spay or pay,” which is the option to sterilize the animal for $135 or pay the foregoing fees and charges, notwithstanding the euthanizing or adoption of the animal. The $135 fee will cover the cost of sterilization, rabies vaccination, microchip, city license and daily boarding fees, but will not be applied to any outstanding fines or penalties.