Pitt County Animal Services to take over spay, neuter program

GREENVILLE, N.C. (WNCT) — The Pitt County Board of Commissioners has approved a request for Pitt County Animal Shelter to take over the duties of spaying and neutering pets that were previously held by Spay Today, Inc.

Spay Today closed on May 31 after providing the service since 2006. According to a post from the Pitt County Government Facebook page, Spay Today Board of Directors unanimously voted to donate and transfer the building and surgical equipment to Pitt County Animal Services. It has been part of the animal shelter’s services since 2016.

The Board of County Commissioners approved the request by Chad Singleton, PCAS director, during their meeting on June 17. Officials said Pitt County currently budgets $145,000 for Animal Services to cover the cost of veterinary services from Spay Today. This includes spay and neuter services as well as veterinary consultation on shelter animals. It is anticipated that these funds will cover operational costs.

“Pitt County is grateful for the strong partnership that we have had over the years with Spay Today. I look forward to a smooth transition as we continue our commitment to control pet overpopulation and provide the best care for animals in Pitt County’s Shelter,” says Janis Gallagher, Pitt County manager.

The Facebook post also indicated the commissioners approved for PCAS to enter into a contractual agreement with Dr. Krystel Riggione, to provide part-time surgical services, training and consultation for the department and to increase the Animal Services headcount to employ a full-time veterinary technician to assist with surgical procedures. PCAS estimates 25 surgeries will be performed weekly to meet current demand.

“The building and equipment are subject to inspection by the North Carolina Department of Agriculture before performing surgeries in-house. The anticipated completion of the transition is by July 31, 2024,” Singleton said.

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