Report Prepared by: Lieutenant Jeremy Salyers Merced Police Department
Title
SUBJECT: Approval of Purchase Orders with Valley Animal Hospital for Veterinary Services in the Amount not to Exceed $47,000
REPORT IN BRIEF
Considers authorizing purchase orders with Valley Animal Hospital in an amount not to exceed $47,000 for veterinary services supporting Animal Control operations and Police K9 care through the end of Fiscal Year 2025-2026. Staff intends to complete a competitive bidding process for the Fiscal Year 2026-2027for veterinary services.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion authorizing the Purchasing Supervisor to issue purchase orders with Valley Animal Hospital for veterinary services in an amount not to exceed $47,000 through the end of Fiscal Year 2025-2026.
Body
ALTERNATIVES
1. Approve, as recommended by staff; or,
2. Approve, subject to other than recommended by staff; or,
3. Deny; or,
4. Refer to staff for consideration of specific items.
AUTHORITY
Merced Municipal Code Section 200.
CITY COUNCIL PRIORITIES
This item aligns with the Council’s priority of Public Safety by ensuring continued veterinary care for Animal Control services and Police Department K9 operations.
DISCUSSION
The Merced Police Department utilizes Valley Animal Hospital as its primary provider for veterinary services related to Animal Control operations and Police K9 care. These services include emergency treatment, routine care, and necessary medical procedures for animals in the City’s custody and for department K9s.
Currently, there is no formal agreement in place with Valley Animal Hospital. Services have been provided on an as-needed basis under existing purchase orders. Due to the nature of veterinary services-particularly emergency response, continuity of care, and the established working relationship-transitioning to a new vendor mid-year is not operationally practical and could negatively impact animal welfare and K9 readiness.
For Fiscal Year 2025-2026, total expenditures with Valley Animal Hospital are projected to exceed the $39,000 threshold requiring City Council approval.
Breakdown of Costs:
• K9 Care (PO# 26000143):
o Actual Year-to-Date: $1,095
o Estimated (April-June): $600 ($200/month)
o Total Estimated FY 25/26: $1,800
• Animal Control Services (PO# 26000057):
o Actual Year-to-Date: $33,165
o Average Monthly Cost: $4,000
o Estimated (April-June): $12,000
o Total Estimated FY 25/26: $45,165
• Total Estimated Expenditure to Vendor: $46,965
Because the total anticipated cost exceeds $39,000, City Council approval is required. Staff intends to complete a competitive bidding process for the 2026-2027 fiscal year for veterinary services.
IMPACT ON CITY RESOURCES
The total fiscal impact is estimated at $46,965 for Fiscal Year 2025-2026.
Funds are already allocated within the Police Department’s Animal Control and K9 budgets.
Approval of this item will ensure continuity of critical veterinary services without interruption.