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Politics & Government

Township Council Approves Animal Shelter Contract

Lower Saucon Township officials announced, however, that they will continue to look for more desirable alternatives for dealing with strays.

At their Dec. 21 meeting, Lower Saucon Township Council members voted 4-0 to .

Council members—except Sandra Yerger, who was absent for the meeting—all , but voted to approve it because there are currently no other alternatives for dealing with strays in the township.

“Unfortunately, it’s the only game in town,” said township manager Jack Cahalan, who reviewed the 2012 contract with council members.

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Cahalan noted some of the changes and increasing costs the township will be faced with under the terms of the new contract. The agreement now includes cats and will allow residents to bring in wandering animals. Previously, only the police were allowed to take dogs to the shelter.

In addition, the cost per animal drop-off has increased from $100 to $150. After the first 10 pit bulls dropped off, the cost per pit bull will double to $300.

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The contract also states that the center can suspend drop-offs due to space limitations at the shelter.

One part of the contract made it a bit easier for council members to accept it, however. The contract can be cancelled with 30 days' notice.

“At first I was uncomfortable with the agreement, but since it is open-ended we can cancel it if it gets out of hand,” said council president Glenn Kern.

Council member Priscilla deLeon proposed the idea of utilizing a dog rescue organization.

“We could put out a plea (to dog rescues),” she said.” I’d rather see it go to a rescue.”

“That is a good idea, but the only problem is the first 48 hours. We don’t have any place to house the dog (or cat),” Cahalan said.

DeLeon said she would inquire about Hellertown’s animal policy at the next Saucon Valley Partnership meeting.

, and .

The township will continue to look for alternatives in the meantime.

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