I have heard many stories from fellow Flagstaff residents about the challenges of retrieving lost pets. When a pet goes missing within the city limits, it can be incredibly stressful for owners to travel over 15 miles to the High Country Humane shelter, located in a rural area of Coconino County. This journey is not only time-consuming but also challenging for those without easy access to transportation.

Currently, the city of Flagstaff's animal control services are contracted exclusively to High Country Humane. The shelter is facing a severe overpopulation crisis, struggling under the influx of animals from across the county. This not only affects the staff’s ability to care for the animals but also impacts the opportunities for owners to reunite with their lost pets promptly.

By dividing the animal control contracts between High Country Humane and Coconino Humane Association, we can alleviate this dire situation. The Coconino Humane Association, centrally located in Flagstaff, has historically served our community effectively for more than 70 years. By allowing this facility to handle city-contracted animal control, we can significantly ease the operational burdens faced by High Country Humane and make it much more convenient for city residents to retrieve their lost pets. 

This solution grants city residents a more accessible and efficient resource for pet recovery, thereby offering peace of mind and faster reunion times for pet owners. It also enables both shelters to operate more smoothly, ensuring better care for every animal.

I urge the Flagstaff City Council to consider this vital change. Splitting the animal control contracts is a practical and feasible solution to a growing problem. Let us restore a balanced system where all animals receive the care they deserve, and owners can quickly and easily reclaim their lost pets.

Please join me in signing this petition to encourage the Flagstaff City Council to take action. Your support can make a significant difference in the lives of our community’s pets and their owners.