May 7, 2024
Police Department
DATE: May 7, 2024
TO: Mayor Martinez and Members of the City Council
FROM:
Bisa French, Chief of Police
Subject:
Pet Food Express LLC Pet Supply Purchases
FINANCIAL IMPACT: Pet supply purchases, estimated between $10,000 and $20,000 annually, are included in the approved Police
Department budget for Fiscal Year 2023-2024, proposed
Fiscal Year 2024-2025 budget, and will be included in the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 budget - account string
01191021-400341.
PREVIOUS COUNCIL
ACTION:
n/a
STATEMENT OF THE
ISSUE:
Police Department staff is requesting City Council’s
approval of a three-year blanket purchase order aimed at consolidating all police canine supply purchases to be
from one vendor in an effort to streamline and
standardize purchases, track spending, and allow canine officers to purchase from local stores with deferred
payment options.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
APPROVE a three-year purchase order for Pet Food
Express LLC, in a total amount up to $45,000, for police canine supply orders, to include canine food, training
treats, toys, and hygiene products – Police Department
(Chief Bisa French 510-621-1802).
AGENDA
REPORT
May 7, 2024
DISCUSSION:
Police canines are indispensable members of law enforcement, serving alongside human officers in various capacities, from apprehending suspects to detecting dangerous substances. However, amidst discussions of equipment and tactics, the importance of nutrition and well-being for these loyal companions often goes overlooked. These animals undergo rigorous training and face dangerous situations, deserving the same care and attention as their human counterparts. Providing high- quality food, training treats, supplements, training toys/rewards, and necessary canine hygiene products to the canines supports their overall health, keeping them physically fit and mentally sharp throughout their service, which is essential for their optimal performance in the line of duty.
Additionally, high-quality food and supplements tailored to a canine’s specific needs can support muscle development, joint health, and overall endurance, minimizing the risk of injuries and ensuring their longevity as working dogs. The high-quality nutrition supports their cognitive function, memory retention, and emotional stability, enhancing their ability to make split-second decisions and remain focused during high-pressure situations.
Lastly, proper nutrition can strengthen the bond between the canine and its handler, fostering trust and cooperation in the field. Investing in high-quality nutrition for police canines is not just a matter of luxury but a necessity. Providing them with the best possible care ensures their well-being, performance, and effectiveness in safeguarding communities.
After evaluating three different vendors and comparing their product offerings, Police Department staff has selected Pet Food Express LLC as the preferred vendor. This decision was based on the brands offered by Pet Food Express LLC, which were found to be the most cost-effective for sustaining optimal canine health. Establishing a standing purchase order for the anticipated annual expenditure ranging between $10,000 and $20,000, will streamline payment processing and reduce administrative workload by allowing for one monthly invoice per canine handler instead of single transaction receipts for all handlers.
DOCUMENTS ATTACHED:
Attachment 1 – Quote Summary Form
Attachment 2 – Quote Package