Houston will carry out Wasilla's animal control ordinances

WASILLA -- Based on Wasilla's contract with the city of Houston, local residents shouldn't see much difference in the way animal calls are handled.

The city of Houston will be charged with carrying out Wasilla's animal control ordinances as they are written. According to the contract, Houston will respond to calls 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to deal with animal attacks, allegations of cruelty to animals and unrestrained or dead animals.

When a stray dog or cat is picked up in Wasilla, the city of Houston will work to find its owner. Animals with identification must be kept for three days, and those with identification for at least five days. Animals brought into the shelter are to be given a physical, vaccinated, housed appropriately and given ample water, food and exercise, according to the contract.

Animals that are not adopted or claimed within the time allotted will be euthanized.

Houston will also be responsible for Wasilla's large animals, will respond to calls and, if necessary, issue citations.

Houston has also agreed to provide monthly reports to Wasilla regarding the types of calls it responds to.

In return for these services, Wasilla will pay Houston about $2,200 per month toward the $26,000 annual contract. Either city can end the contract at any time, with 15 days' notice if either party hasn't fulfilled its obligations or 30 days without cause.