National Animal Control Officer Appreciation Week

In celebration of National Control Officer Appreciation Week, April 7-13, 2019, we would like to thank all of the terrific animal control officers in the Pike’s Peak Region.

National Animal Control Officer Appreciation Week is observed every second full week of April and is endorsed by the National Animal Care & Control Association (NACA). The organization was formed in 1978 for the purpose of supporting its members in performing their daily duties in a professional manner. The mission of the organization is to endorse the bond between people and animals by advocating for responsible animal ownership. The membership works to set standards of professionalism in public safety and animal welfare.

Animal control officers work tirelessly to maintain the well-being of animals in the community. They also work to safely return lost pets to their owners and will often drive pets directly home if they are wearing an ID tag.

The brave men and women who work in the animal control field are devoted to serving the public. They often risk their own lives in order to protect and comfort both frightened animals and scared people. This week is an opportunity to share our gratitude for the amazing work they are doing and recognize their efforts and commitment to their profession.

What Do Animal Control Officers Actually Do?

Animal control officers:

• pick up stray animals
• sometimes pick up animals that are dead on arrival (DOA)
• seek justice in cases of abused, neglected and abandoned animals
• conduct humane investigations
• bring in helpless animals
• protect animals from abusers
• protect people from dangerous animals
• work with sick, lost, aggressive and injured animals
• work on public safety issues
• perform bite quarantines
• perform rabies prevention duties
• educate and teach the public how to better care for their pets

Animal control officers daily face emotionally and physically challenging situations in a professional manner that demands concentration, stamina, endurance and a clear mind.

Why We Appreciate Animal Control Officers

We appreciate that control officers come to the rescue when most people are trying to get away from the situation. We appreciate that they often get bit in the line of duty – and do the job knowing the bite is coming. We appreciate their unwavering respect, compassion and care for all animals, regardless of the situation. We appreciate them being the voice of justice that they often defend in a court of law. Finally, we are grateful they protect the community from aggressive animals, rabies and other diseases and injuries inflicted by loose animals.

How Can You Thank Animal Control Officers?

We think most animal control officers will be happy knowing you are a good pet owner that doesn’t abuse or neglect your pets, follows regular vaccination protocols and provides identification for your animal (microchip and collar ID tags).

When you have the opportunity, make sure you let animal control officers know how much their work matters and makes a difference. If you know an officer that helped you in one way or another, this is the time to thank them.

We want to thank animal control officers for being the everyday heroes they are and for making every life – human and animal – matter.