NIGP 32564: Rations, Small Animal

NIGP 32564 Rations, Small Animal (Item) covers commercially manufactured companion animal food products—dog, cat, rabbit, and small animal diets—procured by county and local animal care agencies to support shelter operations and animal welfare. State and local purchasing under this code targets nutritionally complete, species-specific diets meeting AAFCO and WSAVA standards, with emphasis on reliable weekly delivery capability, high fill rates, on-time performance, and compliance with FDA labeling and shelf-life requirements. Issuing bodies soliciting under the code include county departments of animal care services managing shelter operations; these agencies typically establish multiple-award contracts to maintain product diversity, support animals with varying medical needs, and ensure continuity of care for animals in transition to adoption.

Recent activity centers in California, with Sacramento County's Department of Animal Care Services issuing RFP 2026RFP0087 for dog, cat, rabbit, and small animal food supply for Bradshaw Animal Shelter (responses due September 18, 2026, under a multiple-award, best-value structure with contract term November 1, 2026 through October 31, 2027 and renewal options through 2031) and Solano County issuing IFB 325-0910-25 for animal feed products (bids due September 26, 2024). The Sacramento RFP applies 5% local-business and 2% micro-business preferences and operates through the Sacramento County Procurement Alliance (SCoPA), a cooperative purchasing vehicle allowing other governmental, educational, and non-profit entities to piggyback awarded contracts. Vendors must meet minimum 95% fill rates and 90% on-time delivery standards, maintain weekly service with 24-hour emergency capacity, and propose only authorized distribution of named brands.