County hears proposal to add $2 transactions fee and modest adoption-fee increases at SCRAPS

SCRAPS staff told Spokane County commissioners on June 23 they are proposing a $2 administrative fee on most shelter transactions and modest adoption-fee increases to help the shelter cover rising operating and medical costs.

SCRAPS staff estimated the $2 fee would generate nearly $66,000 annually based on 2025 transaction volumes and said it would exclude the small on-site marketplace where $2 items are sold. "If we had this $2 fee, you would see it generate almost an additional $66,000 for us over the course of the year," the shelter presenter said.

The staff proposed increases include raising puppy adoption fees by $25 (example: from $175 to $200), raising adult-dog fees by $25, increasing kitten fees by $30 and adult-cat fees by $10. Staff said last year the shelter completed 1,984 adoptions and estimated the fee changes could produce roughly $45,000 in additional revenue at historical adoption volume.

To reduce costs and provide adopter support, shelter staff outlined participation in a program with Mars Corporation to supply Iams-brand food at discounted prices and provide "adopter bags" (small starter food bags) at no cost to the county. "Their 35-lb adult dog food they're going to provide to us at $12 a bag," the presenter said, describing a substantial per-bag savings compared with commercial prices.

Staff recommended an August 1 implementation date, with pre-release community outreach and social-media notices to reduce surprise. They noted animal-holding and medical costs (including parvo testing at roughly $20 per test) have risen and that a steady donated-food supply had waned, prompting the partnership.

Commissioners asked about program details such as logistics for donated food, the shelter's relationship with Spokane Humane Society (donated food will be sent to Spokane Humane's pet-food pantry), and whether partner agencies will include pet licensing in adoption workflows to increase public compliance. No formal decision was taken at the briefing; staff said they will proceed with public-notice planning and return with any required board items.