‘More responsive enforcement’: Kansas City to assume responsibility of animal control services

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) - Kansas City is set to assume responsibility of animal control services after residents called for more responsive enforcement.

The City of Kansas City, Missouri, says that on Wednesday, July 30, it will assume responsibility for animal control services formerly provided by KC Pet Project. The Neighborhood Services Department will then oversee operations through the new Animal Services Division.

KC Pet Project noted that it will continue to manage the city’s municipal shelter in Swope Park, which it has led since 2012.

In March, the City Council approved a plan to transfer operations.

“With our recent changes, Kansas Citians will be able to rely on responsive and strong animal care services,” said Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas. ”With enhanced collaboration between Kansas City and KC Pet Project, we’re ensuring humane treatment of animals in our city, consistent enforcement of our laws, and our continuing support of the exceptional shelter operations that KC Pet Project has provided for over a decade.”

City leaders said they will coordinate the transition to ensure uninterrupted service. Residents can still call 311 to report animal welfare concerns - however, starting July 30, residents will also be able to report issues on the myKCMO web or mobile app.

“This transition enables KC Pet Project to shift our resources to focus on our core mission to create a compassionate community for pets and people,” said Kate Meghji, KC Pet Project’s Chief Executive Officer. “We look forward to building on KC Pet Project’s national reputation as an innovative leader in animal welfare by expanding our lifesaving programs and community support services to keep pets and people together.”

With nearly two decades of experience in shelter management, KC Pet Project said Meghji joined the team in May, after a national search. She was previously the Chief Operating Officer for the Humane Rescue Alliance in Washington, D.C.

According to KC Pet Project, the shelter cares for more than 16,000 pets each year at 14 locations across the metro - including the municipal shelter in Swope Park. Its programs and services include intake of strays and surrendered animals, veterinary care, adoption facilitatoin and more.

To prepare for the transition, city leaders said they held an online public survey and hosted three feedback sessions to gather input from residents.

“Kansas Citians told us they want more responsive enforcement of animal ordinances and better engagement with residents to ensure compliance,” said Forest Decker, Director of the City’s Neighborhood Services Department. “With the City’s regulatory authority and KC Pet Project’s deep experience in animal welfare, we look forward to an efficient and cooperative relationship.”

The City indicated that the Animal Services Division will operate out of the Campus for Animal Care in Swope Park. A hired management staff is actively hiring officers and dispatchers to deliver reliable service. A dedicated Animal Services Community Engagement Liaison will also lead public outreach and education.

“This transition reflects our commitment to delivering effective, resident-focused service. I’m confident in the Neighborhood Services staff and their ability to lead this work with professionalism, responsiveness, and care. By empowering our team with the right resources and authority, we’re ensuring Kansas City has the level of service residents deserve,” said City Manager Mario Vasquez.

For more information about the Animal Services Division, click HERE.

For more information about KC Pet Project, click HERE.