National Animal Control Officer Appreciation Week
Long gone is the stereo-type of the dog catcher who did little more than round up loose dogs and put them in his truck. The reality is that Animal Control Officers save the lives of dogs and cats and make their communities a safer place for people and animals everyday. In recognition of this service the National Animal Control Association has designated the second week of April as Animal Control Officer Appreciation Week. Click www.leelostpets.com/Pages/AnimalControlOfficers.aspx to see actual photos and video of Lee County cases.
According to NACA, Animal Control Officers face more one-on-one contact with the public than any other public safety employee. They risk their safety and health on a daily basis dealing with aggressive and dangerous animals. Additionally, they are exposed to multiple zoonotic diseases through contact with infected animals. Unlike the old stereo-type, ACOs today are State certified and continuing education is a job requirement.
On any given day, Lee County ACOs investigate animal neglect or cruelty, apprehend roaming and/or dangerous dogs, rescue sick and injured animals, educate pet owners regarding laws and proper pet care, and mediate disputes between neighbors regarding their pets. In the past year Lee County ACOs responded to more than 17,000 field service calls, rescued more than 8,000 stray animals and confiscated 333 cats and dogs that were victims of cruelty and neglect.
Lee County has 15 Animal Control Officers who serve the county’s human population of 600,000 and an estimated dog and cat population of over 278,650. “It can be an overwhelming job at times,” says Adam Leath, Operation Manager for Lee County Domestic Animal Services. “Our officers go beyond just responding to calls and make a personal effort to see that both people and pets receive the help they need.” Leath notes that this has been especially true in the past year with regard to numerous animal hoarding cases that Lee County ACOs handled and resolved by ensuring that the people received help as well as the animals that were rescued.
Anyone who would like to show their appreciation for the hard work and dedication of Lee County Animal Control Officers may make a tax-deductible donation to the Animal Care Trust Fund. The Fund provides vital veterinary care for sick and injured animals. For more information about Animal Control Officer Appreciation Week call 533-7387 (LEE-PETS).